Saturday, March 31, 2012: 9:50 AM-11:10 AM
Pacific J (San Francisco Marriott Marquis)
Presentation Format:
Innovative/Promising Practice Program Report
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the relationship implications of Veteran PTSD and identify and understand the unique relational dynamics of these couples
- Differentiate the relationship dynamics that distinguished couples that were thriving from those distressed, and those where IPV was present
- Identify factors that Veterans and partners felt benefited them personally, and their relationship with each other
This presentation addresses the results of a qualitative analysis of 23 couples interviewed as part of a larger study of veterans in treatment for PTSD and their intimate partner. The couple dyads demonstrate unique problematic dynamics that exacerbate conflict and distress while simultaneously minimizing the capacity to communicate and resolve conflict, especially when PTSD and intimate partner violence (IPV) are comorbid. Clinical implications for responding to identified IPV, minimizing destructive relationship patterns, and facilitating communication and mutuality will be presented.