Impact of Military Deployment on Family Relationships

The purpose of this study was to investigate how an active duty member's increased time away from home (deployments, temporary duty assignments, and trainings) affects family stress as reported by the dependent spouse. Specifically, this research focused on the impact of increased time away from home on the parent-child relationship within the military family. This research analyzed Parenting Relationship Questionnaire (PRQ) and Parenting Stress Index (PSI) scores as reported by the military dependent spouse. Results revealed that extended time away from home can cause the dependent spouse to detach from the parent-child relationship. Mental health professionals and educators working within a community that supports the armed forces must be sensitive to the unique needs of military families during these times of transition.