Date

8-20-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Thomas Vail

Keywords

Student Veterans, Military Sexual Trauma, Self-Efficacy

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

This heuristic study examined the lived experiences of veterans with sexual trauma, focusing on their resilience in earning a college degree. Although researchers have studied military sexual trauma (MST) extensively, few have investigated how student veterans (SVs) build resilience and achieve academic success after trauma. Using a qualitative, phenomenological design, data were collected through semi-structured, open-ended interviews and focus groups. The researcher and ten co-researchers (participants) were student veterans with lived experience in higher education. Data analysis incorporated heuristic inquiry and NVivo software to support thematic development. An external expert, a former student married to an active-duty service member, contributed an additional interpretive lens, complementing the researcher’s heuristic perspective. Reflexivity was maintained through multiple data sources and analytic strategies. Findings revealed that student veterans who experienced MST showed resilience through forming supportive peer networks, leveraging campus resources, and developing adaptive coping strategies. Theoretical implications of Bandura's (1997) self-efficacy model supported military and trauma studies, while practical implications included co-researcher recommendations such as tailored institutional support and enhanced counseling services. Study delimitations and limitations were acknowledged, and recommendations for future research were offered.

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