A Comprehensive Review of Current Practices Regarding Co-Occurrence of PTSD and IPV: Implications for Unified Policy and Training

With the increase in the number of military members returning from service in combat zones, many communities are seeking guidance on how to address the co-occurrence of combat-related PTSD and intimate partner violence (IPV).  About two million service members have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan during the past 11 years who have experienced frequent and long deployments as well as shortened dwell times.  Multiple deployments, defined as one or more prior deployments, which is often correlated with higher levels psychological distress compared to the first deployment.  An effective prevention approach will require that all intervening service providers are cross-trained on these issues and that communication and coordination among them are initiated and implemented DoD-wide.  Offender intervention programs must possess the ability to evaluate the context of IPV and the existence of co-occurring conditions (i.e. PTSD, TBI) to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.  PTSD counseling services need to be modified to address the unique circumstances of military-related offenders. This presentation aims to improve outcomes for military-related IPV by providing uniform training and support for all advocates and clinicians (military and civilian) who serve military families and work with victims of IPV perpetrated by military personnel. The presentation will also emphasize current DoD-wide and service specific policy and practices.