Sanneke Brouwers
Moral distress among veterans. A conceptual and empirical study about moral distress in the armed forces
The aim of this research is to gain insight into what kind of experiences veterans perceive to be morally stressful. This research approaches moral distress as a role-conflict either within the military role or between the military and personal roles. For this purpose, 25 interviews were conducted with veterans.
Why this topic matters to me
In my work as a military chaplain I experience the military job can be heavy. For example veterans suffer with feelings of guilt and shame about what they did, or failed to do, during their mission. This impacts their self-image, because they can not unite what they did with who they are.
Why I believe it is important to society
I believe that the moral suffering that soldiers experience should not remain solely at the individual level of the veteran, but should be shared broadly in society. The moral questions underlying their mental suffering cannot be answered solely by hospitalizing the veteran. Although good care and support are necessary and important. Experiences of moral distress require not only a therapeutic approach but also a moral response. Questions about the deployment of Dutch soldiers, security in the Netherlands and the world, justice, and human dignity concern us all.
Impact of the Ladies of Bethany Chair on my life and career
As a theologian I aim to contribute to better understanding about moral questions in the military domain. Both to improve veteran care and involvement in military deployment and its victims. This questions about peace and injustice are so important for me because I believe the vision of peace is central in Jesus' preaching.
The difference I hope my work will make in the world
Questions about the deployment of Dutch soldiers, security in the Netherlands and the world, justice, and human dignity concerns us all. The stories of veterans reflect the stories of many victims of war and violence around the world. Their needs should be heard. I advocate addressing these moral questions in society to see how we can all contribute to make the world safer and just. Because we should not leave this alone to a small group of armed professionals.
Publications