Online Reporting of Military Sexual Trauma

Mil Med. 2016 Apr;181(4):350-5. doi: 10.7205/MILMED-D-15-00026.

Abstract

Case finding and treatment of military sexual trauma (MST) remains a serious problem in military and veteran populations as well as in the civilian population. This report provides descriptive examples, with statistics, of persons serving in the military or while living/working on a military base when they experienced unwanted sex. Males, more than females, never disclosed MST before online survey, had more physical injuries as a result and reported chronic disturbing thoughts of the experience. Undisclosed and unreported intrafamilial childhood sexual experiences were cited before an MST by some respondents. Interprofessional collaboration is recommended between military nurse practitioners and behavioral health clinicians as well as innovative strategies using telecommunication and online counseling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Help-Seeking Behavior
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Military Facilities
  • Military Personnel / statistics & numerical data*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Factors
  • Sex Offenses / statistics & numerical data*
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Sexual Harassment / statistics & numerical data*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Veterans / statistics & numerical data*
  • Young Adult