Most people would agree that it is important to have an equal partnership between married individuals.
When one person is serving in the military while their partner is not, this can lead to feelings of resentment and inequality. This is because the individual who is not serving may feel like they are being left behind professionally and personally. In addition, the military spouse may be struggling financially due to having to support themselves without the financial benefits of being enlisted in the service. These factors can all contribute to increased stress levels within the marriage which can eventually lead to psychological problems.
One study found that when one spouse is in the military and the other isn't, there is often a power imbalance present. The military spouse typically has more control over decisions regarding finances, household chores, and childcare responsibilities. This can create tension and resentment between both parties as the non-military spouse feels like they are constantly giving up something for their spouse's career.
If the couple chooses to move every few years or even every year, it can be difficult for the non-military spouse to maintain a steady job or build a career. It also takes away from their ability to develop relationships with coworkers and supervisors. As a result, they may become isolated and depressed.
If the couple has children together, it can be challenging for them to adjust to new schools each time they relocate, leading to anxiety and behavioral issues.
Another study looked at how these dynamics affect sexual intimacy within the relationship. They found that couples where one person is in the military tend to have less sex than those whose partners aren't involved in any sort of work commitments outside of the home. This could be because the military partner often works long hours or night shifts which leaves little time for romantic activities during the week.
Deployments can cause strain on the relationship due to feelings of abandonment and loneliness.
Another factor to consider is how this type of unequal progression impacts mental health. One study showed that when someone is struggling financially due to their partner being enlisted in the service, they are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.
If the individual does not feel valued or supported by their partner during times of separation, this can lead to further psychological distress.
This inequality between married individuals who have different careers can take a significant toll on their mental wellbeing.
What are the psychological effects of unequal career progression within military couples?
The issue of unequal career progression among military spouses has been prevalent for several decades now. This can have severe consequences on both individuals and their families. When one partner outperforms the other in terms of advancement, it may cause feelings of frustration, resentment, jealousy, and inferiority complexes. It can also affect how the couple communicates with each other as well as their relationship overall.