Moderating Role of Self-esteem between Traumatic Events and Internalized Shame among Retired Army Officers

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The present study aims to investigate the moderating role of self-esteem on the association between traumatic events and internalized shame among male retired army officers aged 45-75 (M=54.9, SD=5.56) in the cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The study focuses on individuals with a BA/BSc degree or higher. The main objective is to understand the relationship between traumatic events, internalized shame, and self-esteem in this group.

Methodology: The study employed a purposive sampling technique to gather a sample of 198 retired army officers from the target age group and region. Data collection involved the administration of self-reported questionnaires, including the Trauma History Questionnaire (Green, 2011) and Internalized Shame Scale (Cook, 1991). These instruments were used to assess the participants' experiences with traumatic events and their internalized shame and self-esteem levels.

Findings: Results revealed a positive association between traumatic events, internalized shame, and self-esteem. Findings also yielded traumatic events as a significant positive predictor of internalized shame. Self-esteem was a significant moderator of traumatic events and internalized shame among retired army officers. The current study helped us identify information about diverse kinds of traumatic events experienced by retired army officers, and this exposure leads to a higher prevalence of internalized shame.

Conclusion: The research findings provide insight into the importance of self-esteem and the need to develop interventions to elevate the self-esteem of retired army officers to minimize a traumatic event's adverse outcomes further. In turn, it would help maintain the good mental health of serving and retired army officers.