Citation

Dirkzwager AJE, Bramsen I, van der Ploeg HM. Anxiety Stress Coping 2005; 18(1): 37-51.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/10615800412336418

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate positive and negative consequences of peacekeeping operations, help-seeking behaviour among peacekeepers, PTSD prevalence rates and factors associated with PTSD symptoms. A sample of 3,481 peacekeeping soldiers who participated in various peacekeeping operations was investigated on average 6 years following their deployment. The prevalence of PTSD was 5.6% overall, with 8.0% among peacekeepers of the former Yugoslavia and 3.7% among peacekeepers who went to Cambodia. Twelve percent received professional help during deployment. The majority reported positive consequences of the deployment as well (e.g., a broadening of their horizon [82%], increased self-confidence [52%]). The following variables were significantly associated with current PTSD symptoms: lower level of education, being single, more traumatic situations during deployment, feeling more powerless and threatened, the idea that the mission had become meaningless, having had no control over the situation, and the use of professional help during deployment.