Attachment, Relationships, Academic Problems, and Negative Emotions in Student Veterans With Disabilities

Abstract

In higher education, the student veteran population is growing. As we research and research and gain deeper insights into student veterans and the impact that their military service has on their lives, we begin to uncover connections, such as challenges in romantic and sexual aspects, as well as negative emotions, that may provide valuable insight to counselors. This study aimed to examine whether the relationship between unhealthy attachment and academic problems could be mediated by problems in romantic and sexual relationships, as well as negative emotions, among student veterans with disabilities. Data were collected from 129 student veterans with disabilities who receive counseling and accommodation services from college disability services. The findings revealed that, in student veterans with disabilities, the association between unhealthy attachment and academic problems was partially mediated by romantic and sexual relationship problems, as well as negative emotions. We discussed the implications for counselors and researchers.

The Association between PTSD, Gratitude, Academic Adjustment, and Dropout Decisions in Veteran Students with Disabilities: Brief Report

“…Previous research suggests that student veterans experienced benefits from higher levels of institutional commitment, as it can foster robust peer connections, amplify reception of social support, promote more positive perceptions of others, along with higher gratitude (Smith et al, 2016;Wood et al, 2010). Due to their prior experiences in the military, which involve collaborative efforts to achieve institutional goals (Naphan & Elliott, 2015), student veterans may derive particular benefits from developing close and supportive peer relationships (Grenawalt et al, 2023;Umucu, 2022;Umucu, Kriofske Mainella, et al, 2023;. This could aid their adjustment to the academic environment, contribute to a reduction in dropout rates, and potentially lead to a more satisfying college experience.…”