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‘It’s Like Therapy But More Fun’ Armed Forces and Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs: A Study of Their Emergence as Veterans’ Self-Help Communities

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  • Jim McDermott

Abstract

The armed forces veterans’ support sector is vast and, some would argue, overprovided for. At a time when some long-established ex-armed forces support organizations appear to be losing members, Armed Forces and Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs (AFVBCs) continue to grow. This article examines this phenomenon arguing that AFVBCs, which are organized in a somewhat unconventional way, provide a safe domain for veterans to reminisce, provide mutual support with others who share the same experiences, and understand military service and the difficulties of transition to civilian life, all factors which contribute to their well-being. They enable the generation and protection of military identity which is highly salient and prominent for many veterans. This study sees AFVBCs as a veteran’s self-help community which can also provide a focus for those responsible for implementing the Armed Forces Covenant. A total of 250 veterans contributed to this study, the majority being those who ‘do well’ in civilian life but with a minority who suffer in some way and need help. Veterans attending AFVBCs come from all branches of the armed forces, some having served for a short period and others a full career. Data were collected face-to-face at one AFVBC, from a study of online testimonials, conversations with the AFVBC founder and an online survey.

Suggested Citation

  • Jim McDermott, 2021. "‘It’s Like Therapy But More Fun’ Armed Forces and Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs: A Study of Their Emergence as Veterans’ Self-Help Communities," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 26(3), pages 433-450, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:26:y:2021:i:3:p:433-450
    DOI: 10.1177/1360780420905845
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kirsty Sherlock, 2002. "Community Matters: Reflections from the Field," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 7(2), pages 40-55, May.
    2. Rachel Williams & Jacquelyn Allen-Collinson & John Hockey & Adam Evans, 2018. "‘You’re Just Chopped Off at the End’: Retired Servicemen’s Identity Work Struggles in the Military to Civilian Transition," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 23(4), pages 812-829, December.
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