POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG SPECIAL FORCES VIETNAM VETERANS

Fifty-seven Special Forces Vietnam Veterans were studied to determine if special selection and rigorous training affected the frequency and pattern of predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). No absolute immunity of PTSD was conferred. Frequency (25%) and predictors of PTSD were similar to those reported for other groups of Vietnam Veterans. Symptoms of PTSD were associated with poorer pre-service relationships, being wounded, being wounded after return from R and R, having friends missing in action, feeling guilt over the death of a friend, lack of emotional preparation to leave the unit or service, and failure to discuss feelings upon return from Vietnam.