Emotional Suppression and Long-Term Identity Development in Military Personnel
The act of suppressing one's feelings is quite common among people who have undergone traumatic experiences, particularly in cases wherein their line of work requires them to be strong and resilient for survival.
This can also affect one's sense of self and personal identity in the long run. In military personnel, this phenomenon is often observed due to the nature of their job which exposes them to extreme stress and trauma. This article will discuss how emotional suppression impacts long-term identity development in military personnel.
Impact on Self-Identity
Military personnel are known for being highly disciplined individuals who are trained to follow strict rules and regulations. As such, they may find it difficult to express their true emotions, especially if these contradict the established norms or put them in a vulnerable position.
Soldiers may feel ashamed or guilty about experiencing fear during combat operations or unsure about whether they did something wrong. They may repress these feelings out of pride and shame, leading to a disconnect between their thoughts and actions.
This can lead to an alteration of one's identity as they try to reconcile themselves with their inner selves. This can manifest through changes in behavior patterns, belief systems, and values. Some may become more reserved and distant, while others may turn to substance abuse or other coping mechanisms to numb themselves from painful memories. These adjustments can cause confusion, anxiety, and even depression, making it challenging to maintain a coherent sense of self.
Effect on Relationships
In addition to impacting one's internal state, emotional suppression can also affect interpersonal relationships. Military personnel may struggle to connect with others emotionally, either because they have difficulty sharing intimate details or because they fear judgment from peers. This can result in isolation and loneliness, further exacerbating feelings of detachment from society at large. It may also make it challenging to form meaningful bonds, which is crucial for mental well-being and healthy social development.
Suppressed emotions can manifest in unhealthy ways that negatively impact relationships.
Some military members may bottle up anger or frustration, causing conflicts and arguments with loved ones. Others may withdraw into themselves, making them difficult to reach out to. In extreme cases, this can lead to domestic violence, infidelity, or other destructive behaviors.
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for individuals struggling with the effects of emotional suppression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective approach that helps identify negative thought patterns and replace them with positive alternatives. Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can help reduce stress levels while improving emotional regulation. Group therapy sessions can provide support and validation as people work through their issues together.
It is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of emotional suppression. Do not try to manage your feelings on your own as this can worsen the problem over time. Take action early to prevent lasting damage to your identity and relationships.
How does emotional suppression impact long-term identity development in military personnel?
One of the key components of long-term identity development is the ability to regulate one's emotions. This means that individuals need to be able to recognize their feelings, process them, and express them appropriately. Suppressing emotions can interfere with this process and lead to difficulties with identity formation. Military personnel may experience a range of emotions during deployment, including fear, anxiety, stress, sadness, and anger.