Etiological factors in the development of PTSD in clinical samples of Vietnam combat veterans

This paper presents a review of empirical literature that deals with etiological factors in combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Variables implicated in PTSD from three time frames, premilitary, military, and postmilitary, are identified, and findings from relevant research are discussed. There is consistency across studies in showing significant correlations between PTSD and combat exposure and post-military psychosocial adjustment. Less consistent are the findings with regard to relationships between premilitary psychosocial factors and PTSD. Recent findings from studies that have explored possible physiological correlates of PTSD also are discussed. Based on current literature, implications for future research on etiological factors in combat-related PTSD are presented.