Sex differences in relation between military sexual trauma and risk for alcohol misuse among U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers.

BACKGROUND: Military sexual trauma (MST) is linked to a range of deleterious health outcomes. Extant literature has focused disproportionately on mental health sequelae. Yet, additional research is needed to better understand the extent to which MST contributes to another key issue facing service members: alcohol misuse and related problems. Additionally, sex differences in the nature and prevalence of MST may impact sequelae. The present research examined (a) MST history prevalence among female and male service members, (b) relations between MST history and risk for alcohol misuse and related problems, and (c) potential sex differences in these experiences and outcomes.

METHODS: Data from current/previous service members (334 males, 70 females) were drawn from Operation: SAFETY (Soldiers and Families Excelling Through the Years), a longitudinal study of US Army Reserve/National Guard soldiers and partners. Analyses examined prevalence and types of MST experienced, relations between MST history and three alcohol-related variables (total consumption, heavy drinking frequency, alcohol problems), and differences by sex.

RESULTS: Approximately one-third (33.7%) of service members reported MST history. Females (61.4%) reported MST history at more than twice the rate of males (27.8%). Interactions between MST and sex were significant for all alcohol variables. For males, MST history was related to 70% higher alcohol consumption, 86% higher heavy drinking frequency, and 45% higher alcohol problem scores. MST history was unrelated to alcohol variables for females.

CONCLUSION: Findings suggest higher prevalence of MST among USAR/NG service members than is often reported in the literature, particularly for males. MST history was associated with higher and more hazardous/harmful current alcohol consumption for male service members, highlighting need for greater screening, prevention, and intervention among a population already at high risk for problematic alcohol use. Results underscore MST as an important and prevalent experience requiring greater study alongside more traditional notions of service-connected trauma.