Impact of Combat Deployment on Psychological and Relationship Health: A Longitudinal Study

Survey data of members of the U.S. Air Force security forces assigned to a year-long high-threat ground mission in Iraq were used to determine the degree to which Airmen’s emotional and behavioral health and committed relationships were adversely impacted by an extended deployment to a warzone. Participants completed mental health and relationship measures just prior to and 6-9 months after deployment. Deployment to a warzone negatively impacted Airman's emotional and behavioral health, as well as their relationship functioning.