Citation

Scurfield RM, Wong LE, Zeerocah EB. Mil. Med. 1992; 157(2): 67-73.

Affiliation

Department of Psychiatry, American Lake VA Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98493.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, Association of Military Surgeons of the United States)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1603389

Abstract

An evaluation study is reported about an unprecedented in vivo activity: Huey helicopter rides in the inpatient treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder among Vietnam veterans. A pre- and post-ride attitude survey (N = 45) and clinical observations revealed a series of salient outcomes, including the provocation of pre-existing traumatic memories and pre-flight concerns, profound in-flight reactions, post-flight triggering of intrusive, painful memories, the enhancement of peer group bonding and remembrance of positive war associations, and the desensitization to helicopters and other military stimuli. Theoretical and clinical implications are elaborated.

Language: en