The Effects of Military-Induced Separation on Family Factors and Child Behavior

Data from 61 mothers was examined before, during, and after the military deployment of their husbands. Separations resulted in temporary disruptions in families' reported ability to maintain supportive relationships. Mothers whose husband deployed to a warzone reported less nurturance and family cohesiveness, and more internalizing and externalizing behavior problems in their children than did those whose husbands had peacetime separations.