Combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder in a nonpsychiatric population

Forty Vietnam-era combat veterans who were not currently, and had a largely negative history for, seeking psychiatric or psychological attention for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were diagnosed using DSM-III criteria. Twenty of the veterans met DSM-III criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and these subjects were compared with the remainder of the sample. Subjects completed structured interviews concerning premilitary, substance abuse, homecoming variables, and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Results showed that the PTSD positive veterans reported a greater degree of substance abuse while in Vietnam. It was also suggested that a greater number of negative homecoming experiences characterized the PTSD-positive group. Specifically, this group reported a greater amount of cynicism, alienation, physical neglect, and demeaning experiences during the first six months following homecoming. The two groups did not differ on selected premilitary adjustment variables or attitudes toward the war. Results from the MMPI support its utility in assessing PTSD with a nonpsychiatric population. Results are discussed in relation to etiology and directions for future research.