Go backSearch Session number: 1024

Abstract title: Perceptions of the Compensation and Pension Process for PTSD Predict Stressfulness and Satisfaction

Author(s):
NA Sayer - CCDOR Minneapolis MN, University of MN
MR Spoont - CCDOR Minneapolis MN, University of MN
DB Nelson - CCDOR Minneapolis MN
S Nugent - CCDOR Minneapolis MN
M Murdoch - CCDOR Minneapolis MN

Objectives: In FY 2000, more than 420,000 veterans filed claims for service connection. VBA data indicates that only about half of claimants are satisfied with the claims process. The satisfaction of PTSD claimants is unknown but may be even lower given the stress of applying for PTSD benefits. To understand reactions to the claims process and design appropriate interventions, a reliable and valid measure of veteran perceptions of the C&P process for PTSD is needed.

Methods: The C&P Appraisal Inventory (AI) is composed of three scales: Knowledge (19 items) assesses understanding of the steps involved in filing a claim, Expectation (14 items) assesses beliefs about the process and outcome; and Importance (22 items) assesses the importance of obtaining service connection. Reliability (internal consistency and stability) and validity (factor analysis and correlation) data were obtained on a sample of 436 veterans applying for disability benefits for PTSD. A subsample of 215 claimants rated the stressfulness of and their satisfaction with the claims process 8-10 months after completing the AI.

Results: 414 (95%) were male. The mean age was 56.25 years (SD = 12.26) with a range of 22 to 85 years. Twelve percent were nonCaucasian. Internal consistency .77, .83 and .90 and the test—retest correlations were .49, .83, and .72 for Knowledge, Expectation and Importance, respectively. To examine structural validity, an unweighted least squares-factor analysis was performed with promax (oblique) rotation. Three factors emerged that accounted for 68% of the common variance and closely corresponded to the AI Knowledge, Expectations and Importance scales. Correlations between the factors were low, indicating quasi-independence (rs < .14, ns). Knowledge and Expectations were associated with satisfaction with the claims process and each of the AI scales was associated with the stressfulness of applying for service connection.

Conclusions: The C&P AI is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing veteran perceptions of the C&P process for PTSD that predicts stressfulness and satisfaction.

Impact statement: The AI can be used to examine the effects of knowledge, expectations and importance on reactions to the C&P process, and to identify targets for interventions to reduce stress and increase satisfaction associated with the C&P process.