Military sexual trauma and sexual revictimization

Abstract

Military sexual trauma (MST), defined as experiencing sexual harassment or assault during military service, is associated with a host of deleterious outcomes, including sexual dysfunction. Less is known about how MST may relate to risk for future victimization. This systematic review identified 10 studies that examined the association between MST and revictimization. Studies generally indicated that the more frequent or severe MST was, the more strongly it was associated with risk for future victimization. Most of these studies did not statistically evaluate the role of gender in the relation between MST and sexual revictimization, suggesting an important avenue for future research. Clinicians working with survivors of MST, particularly those who have experienced military sexual assault, may need to address issues of sexual safety with these veterans.