Impact of Military Sexual Trauma on PTSD and Relationship Quality

Open Access

Abstract

25% of women Veterans report military sexual trauma (MST) MST includes contact (e.g., rape) and non-contact (e.g., harassment) assault MST is highly correlated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) PTSD symptoms include nightmares, family problems, insomnia, irritability, depression, and hypervigilence MST is more likely to cause PTSD than deadly combat experiences PTSD severity is negatively associated with relationship quality Problematic as relationship quality is a protective factor against PTSD-related dysfunction Physical touch and intimacy are integral in romantic relationships However, touch apprehension following sexual trauma has not been studied in those with MST To promote well-being and buffer against distress, we need to understand how touch apprehension and MST relate to relationship quality in partnered women Veterans Goal: Determine if relationship quality differs based on contact or non-contact MST assault Examine the association of MST and touch apprehension with relationship quality above other distress risk factors