Soldiers often experience deployments where they are sent away from their loved ones for long periods of time. This can be challenging because it affects their ability to maintain strong and healthy relationships with their partners, friends, family members, and other important people in their lives.
There are several strategies that soldiers can use to sustain relational trust even when they are deployed frequently. These include staying connected through technology, being open and honest about their feelings, planning ahead, setting realistic expectations, and making time for regular communication.
Staying Connected Through Technology
One way that soldiers can maintain relational trust while deployed is by staying connected through technology. Many soldiers use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and others to communicate regularly with their loved ones back home. They can share photos, videos, and updates about their daily activities and experiences during deployment.
Some soldiers may use video chat apps like Zoom or FaceTime to have face-to-face conversations with their partners and families. This helps them feel closer and more connected despite being physically apart.
Being Open and Honest About Feelings
Another strategy that soldiers can use is being open and honest about their feelings. It is natural for soldiers to miss their loved ones and worry about what might happen during deployment. By expressing these emotions, soldiers can build a deeper connection with those who matter most to them. They can also ask questions and share concerns to get support and understanding. Being transparent about one's thoughts and feelings can help build trust and intimacy in a relationship.
Planning Ahead
Soldiers should plan ahead before deployments to ensure they maintain healthy relationships.
They may set aside specific times each week to talk to their partner on the phone or video call. Or, they may schedule date nights over Skype or other virtual platforms when possible. By planning in advance, soldiers can reduce anxiety and stress related to being away from their loved ones.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Soldiers should set realistic expectations with their loved ones before deployments. Deployments are often uncertain, and things may not always go as planned. Soldiers should be clear about what they can and cannot do while deployed and what kind of communication they will be able to provide. Setting realistic expectations can prevent misunderstandings and hurt feelings later.
Sustaining relational trust during frequent deployments requires effort and commitment.
By staying connected through technology, being open and honest about feelings, planning ahead, and setting realistic expectations, soldiers can maintain strong and healthy relationships even when apart. These strategies can help soldiers maintain their identity, sense of purpose, and overall well-being.
What strategies allow soldiers to sustain relational trust despite frequent deployment rotations?
While there is no universal formula for building and maintaining healthy relationships between partners who are frequently deployed, research suggests that some strategies may be more effective than others. One common strategy is to establish a clear communication plan with one's partner before a deployment occurs. This can include setting regular times to check in via phone or video chat, as well as discussing any potential issues or concerns that might arise during the deployment.