Abstract
The conclusion of the war in Afghanistan in 2021 has left a significant portion of veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with estimates suggesting 23% of post-9/ 11 veterans are affected. Traditional psychotherapies, while effective, often see high attrition rates due to stigma-related barriers, underscoring the need for complementary approaches that resonate with the unique psychosocial needs embedded in military veteran culture.
Historically, research on psychiatric service dogs has focused predominantly on PTSD symptom alleviation. This conceptual article introduces a novel focus on their role in promoting positive psychological change known as post-traumatic growth (PTG), a topic that has not been explored to the author’s knowledge. This study highlights the multifaceted contributions of service dogs in fostering PTG through the five domains of PTG: improved relationships with others, new possibilities, a greater appreciation for life, a greater sense of personal strength, and new perspectives on spiritual and existential issues.
The findings from this study reveal that service dogs profoundly catalyze growth among veterans with PTSD in the following themes: providing emotional support through companionship, enhancing interpersonal relationships, reducing social isolation, reshaping core beliefs, and reinforcing a sense of purpose. Importantly, the study demonstrates that veterans can achieve notable positive growth and transformation, even while navigating the ongoing symptoms of PTSD, through the support of service dogs.
By extending the focus beyond mere symptom management, service dogs are shown to offer a comprehensive support system that enhances traditional therapy, potentially increasing treatment adherence and efficacy. This research advocates for the integration of service dogs into therapeutic frameworks for PTSD, emphasizing their pivotal role not just as adjuncts but as central facilitators of healing and growth.
Recommended Citation
Knight, Matthew P.
(2024)
"Service Dogs: A Catalyst for Post-Traumatic Growth Among Military Veterans with PTSD,"
People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice: Vol. 7
:
Iss.
1,
Article 13.
Available at:
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol7/iss1/13
