The experience of being deployed away from one's romantic partner can have significant impacts on both partners' identities and their relationship. This paper explores how the temporary separation may affect the development of new identities, feelings of loneliness, communication challenges, and interpersonal dynamics between the couple upon reunion.
The process of deploying for active duty requires extensive training, preparation, and logistics planning to ensure that military personnel are adequately equipped and prepared for their tasks abroad. While this is necessary to ensure safety and success, it also means that service members must leave behind their families and loved ones, including their romantic partners, who remain at home. For many couples, this can be a difficult adjustment, especially if they do not communicate well before deployment or if there are underlying tensions within the relationship. During deployment, service members may find themselves feeling isolated and lonely as they struggle with new responsibilities and experiences without their partner's support. Their self-concept may become more focused on their role in the military, leading them to prioritize their duties over their personal relationships. On the other hand, their partner may feel abandoned, neglected, and uncertain about their future together. These feelings can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts when the service member returns.
Upon returning from deployment, service members may find themselves faced with new challenges related to intimacy, trust, and communication. They may need time to readjust to civilian life and reintegrate into society, which can be difficult if their partner has already moved on without them.
They may experience post-deployment stress disorder (PDS) or other mental health issues stemming from their deployment experience. This can further strain the relationship and make it harder for both parties to reconnect emotionally.
The service member's identity may change after being away from home, potentially affecting how they relate to their partner. They may have different interests, hobbies, or goals than they did before deploying, which can cause friction between them.
The impact of military deployment on partner identities and relationships is complex and varied.
Effective communication and understanding are essential for navigating these challenges successfully. Service members should be transparent about their needs during deployment, while partners should provide emotional support and stability at home. Both should be willing to work through any conflicts that arise upon reunification and be open to changes in each other's identities and preferences. With effort and patience, couples can overcome these difficulties and emerge stronger from the experience.
What are the effects of military deployment on partner identity and self-concept within relationships?
During military deployment, partners may experience changes in their identities and self-conception as they adapt to new roles and responsibilities while managing feelings of separation and uncertainty about their loved one's safety. The length of time away from home and the level of communication between partners can also impact these processes. Some research suggests that the adjustment process for both partners involves negotiating role transitions and redefining expectations, which can lead to increased intimacy and closeness but also potential strain.