Evaluation of a Peer-Delivered, Strength-Based Family Education Program On Family Resilience Factors in Veterans Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan
Abstract
**Please note that the full text is embargoed** ABSTRACT: Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of participation in a peer-led,
strength-based family education program focused on family resilience factors in returning
OIF/OEF veterans and their families.
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Data sources: De-identified data from Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and veteran
family member participants in the 8-week Operation Resilient Families (ORP) program was
analyzed. Data analysis included review of demographic information and statistical analysis of
pre- and post self-assessment evaluation questionnaires.
Results: Demographic data was provided on forty seven of fifty-three known participants -
89%. Data represented veterans and veteran family members, with nineteen (19) reporting
veterans and twenty-eight (28) reporting family members. In the veteran participants, the most
frequently represented military service branch was the Army (53%), followed by the Navy
(16%), Marines (11 %), US Air Force (5%), and not reported (15%). The family participants
represented 18% Army, 7% Marine, and 75% not reporting. Veteran participants tended to be
older than the family member participant with a mean age of 51 years versus 36 years of age.
Veterans reported an average of two deployments with a range of seven to none. Family
members reported an average of one deployment for their family member.
Statistics were calculated on seventeen matched pre- and post- self assessments.
Resiliency scores were significantly increased for both veteran and family member groups.
Combined scores calculated for specific resiliency factors - family relationships, family
communication and knowledge ofresources - were all significantly increased, as well. The ORF
program is composed of a didactic portion (knowledge) and an experiential, practice component.
The 8-week format allows participants to practice the skills that were taught in each class
session, as well as the opportunity to discuss within the groups any problems that were
encountered when trying to implement the skills. An increase in knowledge does not assure
changes in behavior. Follow-up is needed to determine if the family wellness recovery plans
were implemented.
Conclusions: The ORF Program strives to build on and support the strengths ofretuming
combat veterans and their families. The curriculum is focused on identifying strengths, teaching
coping skills, and providing hope for healthy re-integration after deployment. Healthy
relationships, effective family communication, and knowledge ofresources significantly
increased for those who participated in the groups.