Testing Two Brief Treatments for Aggression in Military Personnel

Clinical trial open to service members at Fort Hood

Have you had trouble controlling your anger? Have you acted aggressively and later regretted it? Do you feel like you could use some help getting your emotions under control?

The STRONG STAR Consortium based at UT Health San Antonio is conducting a research study at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, to evaluate two types of treatments for these very issues. These treatments are Manage Emotions to Reduce Aggression (MERA) and self-monitoring with risk management. MERA involves just a few sessions and teaches you how to deal with your emotions effectively. Self-Monitoring with risk management allows you to increase your awareness of your anger and aggression by tracking it.

Self-monitoring is a behavioral tool that is an active component of many cognitive-behavioral therapies. MERA already has shown promise in previous and ongoing trials with military veterans. Now STRONG STAR investigators are testing its efficacy with active duty service members.

As part of the study, all participants will receive MERA and also self-monitoring with risk management. The order of the two interventions will vary. This research method will allow investigators to evaluate whether MERA and self-monitoring reduce anger and aggression and if their benefits are lasting.

Are you a service member at Fort Hood and experiencing these symptoms?

  • Anger issues that are impacting your life
  • Other symptoms of posttraumatic stress (e.g., feeling jumpy, on edge; distressing memories; nightmares and other sleep difficulties; avoidance)
  • Acts of aggression that you regret
If so, this may be a great option for you. To inquire about participation, call 210-562-6726 or use the Get Treatment Contact Form to send us a private message.