We Used to Live on Our Own Little Islands: A Qualitative Evaluation of Multifamily Therapy with Veterans. Issue 6 (3rd July 2018) - van Ee, Elisa
ABSTRACT: Research has shown a consistent negative association between increased symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans and successful functioning in family relationships. Despite compelling reasons to involve family members in the treatment of veterans, there is still a significant shortage of evidence-based programs. Multifamily therapy (MFT) is a combination of psychodynamic group therapy with systemic therapy and aims to elicit behavioral changes through the restructuring of interactional patterns in families. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore the efficacy of MFT in a convenience sample of Dutch veterans (nine) and their family members (23) who participated in an MFT program. Four basic themes were identified in the transcripts of the semi-structured interviews: 1. stronger family bond and reduced conflict, 2. understanding PTSD and its effect on the family, 3. working with other families, and 4. suggestions for improvement of MFT. In this study, participants described angry outbursts, interpersonal withdrawals, and emotional numbing as characteristic of their daily familial experiences. After MFT, the anger outbursts and fights diminished in most cases. MFT results in more fulfilling relationships within veteran families. MFT does not decrease symptomatology but is capable of enhancing the mental health of the veteran and their family members.