Articles
Belonging and Support: Women Veterans' Perceptions of Veteran Service Organizations
Authors:
Kate Hendricks Thomas ,
Assistant Professor, College of Health Sciences
Health Promotion Program Director
Charleston Southern University, US
About Kate
Kate Hendricks Thomas is an Assistant Professor of Public Health at Charleston Southern University. She is a teacher, speaker, and writer. She is a Marine Corps veteran and the author of
Brave, Strong, True: The Modern Warrior's Battle for Balance.
Ellen L. Haring,
Director of the Service Women’s Institute at the Service Women’s Action Network;
Security Studies Professor, Georgetown University, US
Justin McDaniel,
Assistant Professor of Health Promotion, Charleston Southern University, US
Kari L. Fletcher,
Associate Professor, School of Social Work, University of St. Thomas; Coordinator, Area of Emphasis in Military Practice (AEMP) School of Social Work St. Catherine, US
David L Albright
Hill Crest Foundation Endowed Chair of Mental Health, The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa), School of Social Work, US
Abstract
Background and Purpose: This research sought to better understand female veterans’ underutilization of veteran and military service organizations (VSO/MSOs). Specifically, the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) conducted a needs assessment examining historically low levels of social cohesion among women veterans, and then a research team analyzed data for its statistical and practical significance. The intent of this research was to provide guidance about how best to develop organizational programming around the needs of military women.
Materials & Methods: Secondary analysis of 2016 SWAN needs assessment survey data involved mixed-methods analysis of open- and closed-ended questions related to VSO/MSO participation and included: frequency tables, geospatial analysis, multivariate regression analysis with educational achievement, race/ethnicity, service branch, and service era predicting participation. Quantitative analyses were followed by content analysis of questions that provided additional insight into the participants’ perceptions of VSO/MSOs.
Results: Of the sample (n = 829) in the present study, 31.1% of respondents were members of one or more VSO/MSOs. Current members (n = 219, response rate 84.9%) identified three primary organizations in which they participated, including: The American Legion (32%), Disabled American Veterans (28%), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (28%). Some variation in VSO membership was evident geographically, with participation highest in Maryland and Wisconsin. Regression models indicated that participation in VSOs by female veterans is predicted by higher levels of education (OR = 1.66, 95% CI [1.04, 2.66]) and Hispanic/Latino ethnicity (OR = 2.60, 95% CI [1.07, 6.33]). Statistical significance was not found for predictor variables of service branch or service era, although greater proportions were Army (30.4%) and Post-9/11 (27.6%). Qualitative analyses indicated that respondents (n = 773) did not feel welcome in existing service member and veteran groups (25.23%) and stated that this was among the reasons they were not currently a member (29.75%).
Conclusion: Study findings offer perspective regarding women veterans’ participation in and perceptions of VSO/MSOs. The findings offer important feedback for organizations hoping to reach women veterans, the fastest growing veteran population. Targeted programming is indicated. Recommendations also include single-sex offerings, available child care at some events, and tailored outreach with peer support efforts.
How to Cite:
Thomas, K. H., Haring, E. L., McDaniel, J., Fletcher, K. L., & Albright, D. L. (2017). Belonging and Support: Women Veterans' Perceptions of Veteran Service Organizations. Journal of Veterans Studies, 2(2), 2–12. DOI: http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v2i2.12
Published on
25 Jun 2017.
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