How do experiences of moral injury influence sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and emotional vulnerability in military couples? Moral injury is the psychological harm experienced when an individual encounters a violation of their core values and ethics. It can occur during military service through witnessing or experiencing combat trauma, betrayal by fellow soldiers, or breaking rules and regulations. This can impact sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and emotional vulnerability in military couples.
Sexual desire is affected by both biological factors such as hormone levels and psychological factors like stress and anxiety. Moral injury can cause increased stress and anxiety, leading to decreased sexual desire. Couples may also struggle with feelings of guilt or shame related to their sexual desires.
PTSD symptoms such as hypervigilance, depression, and anxiety may make it difficult for individuals to feel comfortable engaging in intimacy with their partner.
Relationship satisfaction is often tied to communication, trust, and empathy. Moral injury can lead to difficulties communicating openly about emotions and needs, which can strain relationships. Trust issues may arise due to secrets, lies, or betrayals associated with morally injurious events. In addition, partners may struggle to understand each other's perspectives and experiences, causing tension and resentment. Emotional vulnerability is a key component of intimacy, but moral injury can create emotional distance between partners.
The experience of moral injury can result in self-blame, self-doubt, and negative self-talk that can manifest in various ways. Partners may withdraw from intimate moments, avoid expressing their needs, or become overly critical of themselves or their partner. They may feel ashamed or guilty about their actions or reactions during conflict or crisis. These struggles require open and honest communication, therapy, and support from loved ones to heal and move forward. With proper attention and care, military couples can build resilience and strengthen their relationship despite the challenges posed by moral injury.
How do experiences of moral injury influence sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and emotional vulnerability in military couples?
A study by Hewitt et al. (2018) has shown that experiencing moral injury can affect both sexual desire and relational satisfaction in military couples, with those who have experienced moral injury reporting lower levels of both compared to their counterparts without moral injury. Furthermore, research has suggested that moral injury may also increase emotional vulnerability in individuals due to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety associated with it.