A Qualitative Analysis of Social Isolation in Partners of Veterans with Combat-Related PTSD

Research has established that partners of veterans who isolate socially as a result of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are socially impacted. It is not known how partners cope with their own social isolation while maintaining their commitment to their veteran; this information is needed for professionals to understand their mental health needs. Weiss' theory of the syndrome of loneliness was used in this transcendental phenomenological research study investigating social experiences in 10 female participants drawn from social media groups. Qualitative e-mail interviews were used to establish how participants socialized as well as what professional and supportive services they might consider beneficial. The experiences of the participants produced the textural and structural descriptions that established salient themes. Data were coded and analyzed to identify patterns that emerged from the experiences of the participants. The primary themes that emerged included that the women had established deep commitments to their veterans. The phenomenon of social isolation was found in all participants. Participants' perception of the social stigma of PTSD resulted in social withdrawal and a greater dependency on social media. None of the participants had sought professional or supportive services. Professional and support services could consider using social media to reach partners of veterans who communicate online, given that these individuals may not seek help themselves. This research can be used to create social change by encouraging providers to ask about social isolation in the partners of veterans with PTSD and in helping the partners of those veterans to reach out for assistance and support.