Gender-specific risk factors for psychopathology and reduced functioning in a post-9/11 veteran sample

U.S. combat veterans frequently encounter challenges after returning from deployment, and these challenges may lead to difficulties in psychological and social functioning. Currently, research is limited on gender-related differences within this population, despite female veterans comprising a growing portion of the U.S. military with roles and exposures similar to their male counterparts. Using secondary analysis, we examined 283 returning combat veterans (female = 29.4%) for differences in psychopathology and trauma history. Female veterans were more likely to report a history of sexual trauma than their male counterparts, whereas male veterans were more likely to report greater frequency of gambling in the past year, impulsivity, and hypersexuality. No gender-related differences were identified for depression, anxiety, insomnia, or substance-use disorders, although both men and women veterans had higher rates than those found in the general population. While both male and female combat veterans report various mental health problems as they transition back into civilian life, gender-related differences relating to sexual trauma, hypersexuality, and impulsivity warrant additional investigations with respect to the potential impact they may have on veteran reintegration and treatment.