Exploring the experiences of female veterans with acquired disabilities who participate in competitive sport and the impact competing has on their self-identity
Leaving the military can disrupt veterans’ sense of identity, particularly for those with service-related disabilities. Disabled veterans may feel alienated from both the civilian population and their military identity. Addressing identity struggles is crucial for the recovery and reintegration of injured veterans, as identity significantly influences psychological well-being
Participation in sports has proven beneficial for disabled veterans, aiding their successful reintegration into civilian life, boosting self-esteem, and fostering connections with fellow veterans. However, female veterans represent a minority demographic in the military, resulting in previous research and rehabilitation programs primarily targeting their male counterparts. Despite this, female veterans face higher rates of depression and anxiety, highlighting the growing need to better understand and address strategies that can enhance their mental health and well-being.
Therefore, this research aims to fill this gap in knowledge by exploring the lived experiences of female veterans who have acquired a disability and who participate in high level competitive sport. This research aims to give voice to an underrepresented population, providing insight into how competitive sports influence the sense of self and identity of female veterans with disabilities.
Participants will be eligible for this study if they meet the following criteria:
1) Are veterans of the British armed forces.
2) Females who sustained a psychological and/or physical disability during military service.
4) Have participated in at least one national or international elite sporting competition.
Would you be interested in taking part?
Participation in this study involves creating two social identity maps and taking part in a one-on-one interview with the researcher. Upon completing the social identity maps and the interview, participants will receive a £15 Amazon voucher as a token of appreciation for their time and effort. If you are interested in taking part or would like more information about this research, please email the researcher Anna Hendrick at hendria@hope.ac.uk