Body image concerns and psychological wellbeing among injured combat veterans with scars and limb loss: A review of the literature

Keeling, Mary; Williamson, Heidi; Williams, Victoria; Kiff, James; Harcourt, Diana

Abstract

A narrative literature review aimed to determine the nature and prevalence of body image and psychosocial concerns and associated support needs among veterans with combat-related appearance-altering injuries. A systematic approach to a narrative review included searching published and grey literature between September 2018 and January 2019 and again in November 2019. Four hundred and twenty-seven papers were retrieved and judged against the eligibility criteria. Four papers were considered eligible and relevant and included in the review. Limited research investigating body image and psychosocial concerns among combat veterans with an altered appearance exists. The four papers indicate that combat injured veterans may experience body image distress and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and social anxiety. Military culture may enable resilience. Additional research is required to determine the scope and nature of the psychosocial impact of appearance-altering injuries among combat injured veterans. Further research should identify support gaps and inform the development of evidence-based interventions where needed.

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Jun 11, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Jul 15, 2020
• Publication Date: 2021
• Deposit Date: Jun 11, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 16, 2021
• Journal: Military Behavioral Health
• Print ISSN: 2163-5781
• Electronic ISSN: 2163-5803
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 1-10
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/21635781.2020.1792013
• Keywords: Body image; military veterans; combat veterans; combat injury; burns; limb loss; scars; physical scarring; disfigurement; resilience
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/6017804