Social Interaction Challenges of Soldiers That Have Transitioned to Civilian Life After Serving 20 Years in the Army

The purpose of this dissertation in practice research study is to explore the social interaction challenges experienced by enlisted, male, Army Soldiers who have retired after serving over 20 years. As such, the study aims to increase the understanding of social interaction challenges of retired soldiers who have transitioned to civilian life. Nine participants were selected for the research study based on a purposive sampling strategy. One-on-one interviews resulted in the following themes: difficulty adjusting to a new lifestyle, feelings of isolation in a new environment, being uncomfortable in unfamiliar places, and a diminished sense of well-being with a limited support system. In addition to gaining a better understanding of soldiers’ experiences while transitioning, the themes can also help identify gaps in the Army’s current transition program, which could help better prepare soldiers to transition to civilian life. These findings may possibly assist in developing recommendations that can enhance the support that retirees receive as they transition from military service and reintegrate into communities across the nation, which is important to maintaining mentally healthy citizens, who engage in healthy personal and professional relationships that contribute to their overall well-being.

Grantor dc:publisher

Creighton University

Year dc:date.issued

2020

Author dc:creator

• Hayes, LaShan

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Bloomquist, Candace D.

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University and to ProQuest following the publishing model selected above.

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10504/127401

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:cdr.creighton.edu:10504/127401