Gender Differences in Service Use and Social Support Among Survivors of Military Sexual Trauma

• In Event: Mortality, Health, and Justice Involvement

Abstract

Military sexual trauma (MST) remains a prevalent issue within the armed forces, and while some research suggests gendered differences between experiences and responses to MST, very little research explicitly explores these relationships. Using the Army Study to Assess Risk & Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS) dataset, a nationwide survey of over 72,000 soldiers collected between 2009-2015, this study first examines the relationship between gender and the likelihood of MST survivors seeking help from both civilian and military services. Second, this study explores the mediating and moderating role of social support on service use. The findings of this study have implications for both research and practice within military and veteran communities.

Authors

• Jacquelyn Burckley, University of South Florida

• Ráchael Powers, University of Cincinnati