title: Reserve unit mobilization trauma.
abstract: Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 caused much speculation that military Reserve units such as the 12th USAF Contingency Hospital would be called to active duty in the event of a war. Feelings and attitudes of personnel in the 12th Contingency Hospital were measured with a survey questionnaire in October 1990, 3 months prior to the mobilization date. The same questionnaire was administered in June 1991, about 2 months after the unit was demobilized. Indicators of increased tension, fear, and discouragement changed dramatically in the pre- and post-activation surveys. Some interesting rank group findings were noted. Results of the surveys point the way toward future studies to better understand what the specific emotional aspects of mobilizing a Reserve unit are and what can be done to ameliorate negative factors and to enhance constructive coping with problem areas.
authors.affiliation: 12th USAF Contingency Hospital, Travis AFB, CA 94535.
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Samler
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007493:Iraq; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008889:Military Personnel; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014857:Warfare