The Socioeconomic Impact of Military Spousal Unemployment

Abstract

Unemployment for military spouses has long been a concern in the United States. Spouses are unable to secure occupational stability because of the unique family stresses of multiple deployments and relocations. Deployments make it difficult for spouses to care for their home and family while pursuing careers or education. Military spouses suffer skill depreciation and the negative consequences are exacerbated by each move. Building a retirement plan without employment becomes increasingly distant with each career interruption. The spouse s dissatisfaction reduces military retention which negatively impacts military readiness. This study details the socioeconomic factors that military spouses face and resolutions to help alleviate these adverse effects.