- Increased PTSD Symptoms Among Directly Active War Veterans: The study found that veterans who were directly involved in the conflict (DAV, N=32) exhibited almost twice the level of PTSD symptoms compared to those who were indirectly active (IAV, N=26). This suggests that the traumatic experiences of war continue to have a substantial impact on veterans’ mental health even five years after the conflict.
- Secondary Traumatic Stress in Parents: Parents of veterans who actively participated in the war displayed higher levels of secondary traumatic stress compared to parents of veterans who were not directly involved. Remarkably, these differences emerged despite the fact that most parents were unaware of their children’s whereabouts during the war.
- Impact on Mothers and Fathers: Mothers exhibited higher secondary traumatic stress than fathers overall. However, a noteworthy correlation was observed between war veterans’ post-traumatic stress and fathers’ secondary traumatic stress symptoms. This indicates a strong emotional connection and shared experience between fathers and their veteran children.
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