Adverse childhood experiences, military adversities, and adult health outcomes among female Veterans in the UK

Abstract

Introduction: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are well-documented risk factors for poor outcomes in adulthood, including worse physical and mental health. A higher prevalence of ACEs has been reported in military populations compared with the general population. Although there is a body of literature exploring childhood adversities in military populations, research focusing on the female Veteran population in the United Kingdom is limited. Methods: Data were collected through a cross-sectional, self-report survey. Te survey was completed by female army Veterans recruited via a female military association. Te response rate was approximately 45%, and the efective sample for this study consisted of 750 female UK army Veterans. Participant histories of ACEs, military adversities, and current mental and physical health difculties were assessed. Results: A sizable percentage (55%) of participants reported experiencing one or more childhood adversities. Te most frequently reported ACEs were emotional abuse, physical abuse, and feeling unloved by family. Experiencing childhood adversities was most strongly associated with mental health difculties such as posttraumatic stress disorder and military adversities such as emotional bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault during military service. Discussion: Tis study provides insight into the prevalence rates of ACEs in a largely under-researched population and into the relationship between military adversities and adult health outcomes. Further research is needed to better understand the unique needs of female Veterans in the United Kingdom and how they compare with those of their male counterparts and women in the UK general population.