Cultural norms within military units have significant impacts on how soldiers express their emotions and form close relationships. Emotional suppression is often seen as a necessary part of being a soldier; however, this can lead to problems later on when soldiers struggle to articulate feelings in civilian life.
Military culture and emotional expression
In military culture, emotional suppression is an essential skill. Soldiers must be able to focus on tasks and missions without distraction from their personal lives, which may include fear, anxiety, sadness, or grief. Suppressing these feelings allows them to stay objective and make sound decisions under pressure.
This habitual repression can make it difficult for soldiers to connect emotionally with others in civilian life, such as family members or romantic partners. They may find it hard to communicate what they are feeling, leading to misunderstandings and resentment.
A lack of emotional expression can create psychological stress that exacerbates physical health issues like PTSD or depression. It is vital for veterans to learn new ways to manage their emotions after leaving service so they don't face long-term consequences.
Cultural norms and intimacy
Military culture also influences how soldiers approach intimate relationships. Sexuality is highly regulated and tabooed, particularly same-sex relationships. Most militaries worldwide still ban openly gay soldiers from serving. This restriction can cause tension between sexual orientation and identity within the unit, where loyalty and trust are crucial factors.
It can also lead to secrecy and shame, making it challenging for soldiers to build meaningful connections outside the unit. Some may choose not to reveal their true selves to protect themselves and others, limiting emotional connection potential.
Some cultures promote strong bonds between men through shared experiences and rituals, which can foster deep emotional connections. These bonds often extend beyond the military and can last for years after discharge, even though they might seem unusual to outsiders.
In what ways do cultural norms within military units influence emotional expression and intimacy?
The emotional expressions of members of military units are influenced by the cultural norms that define their interactions with one another. Some cultures may prioritize emotionlessness as a form of strength and resilience, while others may encourage open communication and vulnerability. Intimate relationships between members of the same unit can be affected by cultural expectations around gender roles and sexuality, as well as taboos against public displays of affection.