Traditional Masculinity Ideology, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder {PTSD ) Symptom Severity, and Treatment in Service Members and Veterans: A Systematic Review

Veterans receive messages to conform to aspects of traditional masculinity through both the broader culture and military culture. Theoretical and empirical evidence suggest that adherence to traditional masculinity negatively impacts veterans' PTSD severity and treatment engagement. The present article reviews the literature and synthesizes research findings utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. This review focuses on the associations between traditional masculinity and PTSD severity and treatment engagement. Findings suggest that endorsement of a traditional masculinity ideology creates a culture in which experiencing a traumatic event is emasculating. Overall, endorsing beliefs and behaviors that conform to traditional masculinity ideology and experiencing gender role strain are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity and PTSD-related constructs. In particular, emotional stoicism and stigmatizing one's emotions are associated with greater PTSD severity and difficulties with functioning. This review also provides recommendations for future research directions and clinical interventions.