Many of the social and psychological problems displayed by Vietnam veterans have been classified as “Delayed Stress Syndrome.” Stress theory does not, however, adequately account for protracted reactions after the elements responsible for the stress have been removed. Grief theory provides a model that helps explain such reactions. Grief is a very stressful reaction to any significant loss, and failure to address and resolve grief can result in delayed reactions. The Vietnam experience was replete with significant traumatic losses, many of which were not resolved at the time. It was not until separated from the service that individuals, for a number of reasons, began to experience symptoms associated with suppressed grief. A major focus of delayed reaction research and therapy should be placed on the implications of delayed grief, as well as stress.
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