Anticipation of Deployment Affects Sexual Prioritization
Sexual prioritization refers to the way people rank their sexual needs, desires, and preferences. It is influenced by a variety of factors such as age, gender, culture, religion, and personal beliefs.
There is another factor that has been largely overlooked - the anticipation of deployment. Military personnel, both male and female, often experience a range of emotions leading up to their deployment, including anxiety, stress, fear, excitement, pride, and guilt. These feelings can have a significant impact on their sexual lives.
One study conducted among US Army soldiers found that approximately half of them reported changes in their sexual behavior during pre-deployment periods. Some soldiers experienced increased sexual desire, while others became more sexually restrained due to guilt or concern for their partner's safety.
Some soldiers chose to engage in risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected intercourse, to cope with stress. This suggests that the anticipation of deployment affects how military personnel prioritize their sexual health.
Another study found that women who were deployed for six months or longer had higher rates of sexual dysfunction than those who were not deployed. This was attributed to the physical and psychological strain of being away from home, as well as the potential stressors associated with combat experiences. The same study also noted that women who were married or cohabiting before deployment were less likely to report sexual difficulties than those who were single. This indicates that marital status may play a role in how military members prioritize their sexual health.
Anticipation of deployment seems to disrupt the normal course of sexual relationships. It can lead to changes in sexual desire, sexual risk-taking behaviors, and even sexual dysfunction. Understanding these effects is important for providing support and resources to military personnel and their partners, as well as for promoting overall sexual health within this population.
How does anticipation of deployment affect sexual prioritization?
Anticipating deployment can have various effects on an individual's sexual prioritization. Some people may experience a decrease in sexual desire due to stress and anxiety related to the upcoming deployment. Others may feel a heightened sense of urgency to engage in sexual activity before leaving for deployment, which could lead to risky behaviors such as unprotected sex. The social norms and cultural expectations surrounding sexuality and deployment may also influence how individuals prioritize their sexual activities.