Do Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies Differ by Generation in U.S. Military Active Duty and Veterans?

Abstract

U.S. service members move frequently and work in high-stress jobs that affect the individual, military mission, and family dynamics. A deployment situation could involve life and death decisions or encounters for themselves and fellow service members. U.S. service members must cope effectively for their own, their fellow warriors, and their family’s well-being and success. This study assessed self-reported perceived stress and coping strategies of active duty U.S. service members and veterans, based on generation age groups (n = 246). Three stratified groups consisted of 1) Baby Boomers, 2) Generation X, and 3) Millennials. No significant generational age differences were seen on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) responses or the brief COPE (Coping subscales). This research does not support prior research findings in which age was associated with coping, possibly due to volunteers self-selecting into a study on stress-management or being averse to reporting less beneficial coping strategies.