Effective problem-solving in retired military families: A qualitative study

This study explored the effective problem-solving experiences of recently retired military families using qualitative methodology. Despite the extensive literature on effective problem-solving and substantial literature on military retirement transition problems and challenges, little descriptive data exists on how retiring military families effectively solve problems intrinsic to military retirement. In addition, no previous studies have investigated effective problem-solving in a sample of retired families or the retirement experiences of whole military families. In-depth family interviews were conducted with nine recently retired military families. Participant family members also completed demographic and problem-solving history questionnaires, the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), and the Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised (SPSI-R). Utilizing Maykut and Morehouse's (1994) constant comparative method, six distinct categories of themes emerged: (a) Intrafamily Relations and Teamwork; (b) Retirement Continuity and Stability; (c) Problem-Solving Tactics; (d) Military and Civilian Social Networks; (e) Attitudes, Emotions, and Experiences; and (f) External Factors and Resources. Themes are discussed with regard to the extant literature on military retirement and family problem-solving. Inductive analysis of the themes yielded broad indications that effective problem-solving experiences were the product of family-centric problem-solving efforts, were the product of sequential problem-solving processes, and required time to be achieved. These findings are each supported by multiple themes and offer clear opportunities for future quantitative researchers interested in guiding Congress and military service providers' efforts to reconstruct the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). The findings of this study also provide a strong rational for the continued study of military retirement from a family problem-solving perspective.