چکیده : 

With the continued operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, studies of the prevalence of posttraumatic stress

disorder and related symptoms are now common. However, lacking is how these symptoms relate to precipitating

conditions and the mitigating effects of social support on these symptoms. This is particularly

relevant for reserve military personnel, who have been shown to be greater at-risk for postdeployment

problems. The present study examined questionnaire data obtained from Army National Guard (ARNG)

units immediately after their return from deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan during 2010 (

soldiers in 50 units). Findings showed few soldiers displayed risk behaviors (i.e., daily alcohol use, use

of illicit drugs, suicide thoughts, and physically threatening others) during and after deployment. Those

most likely to have more postdeployment risk behaviors were also those who showed more risk behaviors

during deployment. A substantial percentage of soldiers reported combat exposure, postdeployment

negative emotions, and postdeployment loss of a personal relationship. These reported outcomes were

all related to increased risk behaviors after deployment. The buffering effect of social support on postdeployment

risk behaviors was equally evident when data were examined individually and when grouped

by unit memberships. Implications of findings for future research, practice, and policies are discussed.