Sex differences in early release from the military: Results from a 16-year follow-up study in Canada

Journal of Military Veteran and Family Health 2026

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Authors: Natalie P. Mota, Essence Perera, Jordana L. Sommer, Murray W. Enns, Tracie O. Afifi, Jitender Sareen, Kerry Sudom, Mary Beth MacLean, Shay-Lee Bolton
DOI: 10.3138/jmvfh-2025-0021
Cited by: 0
References: 27

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the increasing participation of women in the military, there has been limited exploration of sex- and gender-specific considerations in early release scenarios. This study aims to understand the sex-specific factors associated with early release from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and understand the prevalence, risk correlates, and protective factors involved using a nationally representative, 16-year follow-up survey of active duty CAF members. Methods: The 2018 CAF Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey was a 16-year follow-up of 2,941 CAF Regular Force members who participated in the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey-Canadian Forces Supplement. The prevalence of males and females who were released following

Fields of Study & Subjects

Education and Military Integration Occupational Health and Performance Military and Defense Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Military Veteran and Family Health
Volume
12
Issue
4
Pages
20–32
Publication date
4 March 2026
Language
EN