Sexual Roles and Expectations
Following Combat-Related Psychological Trauma
After returning from war, many veterans experience difficulties readjusting to civilian life. This includes changes in their sexual roles and expectations. Here are some examples:
1. Difficulties with Intimacy
Veterans may find it difficult to be close to others due to traumatic memories. They may also feel guilt for surviving while others did not. These feelings can lead to emotional detachment, which makes it hard to connect with partners.
2. Changes in Desire
Combat stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol can cause a decrease in testosterone levels. Veterans may become less sexually active, which can strain their relationship. If they do have sex, it may change - for example, aggressive or violent acts may no longer feel pleasurable.
3. Communication Issues
Communicating about sexual needs becomes more challenging when there is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological issues. It's harder to talk about desires and fears without getting upset, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.
4. Lack of Initiative
Men who suffer from PTSD often report low libido, depression, and difficulty with arousal. They may need help initiating sex, which can make them feel weak or shameful. Women may also struggle with these symptoms.
5. Emotional Disconnect
PTSD can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, and numbing that make it hard to emotionally connect during sex. Partners may feel like they're having sex with a stranger, causing distance between them.
6. Sexual Dysfunction
Some veterans experience erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, vaginal dryness, and orgasmic disorders due to the physical and psychological trauma of combat. This can lead to decreased satisfaction and intimacy.
7. Unusual Behaviors
Veterans may engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, unprotected sex, multiple partners, or even rape. These behaviors are attempts to regain control over their lives, but they harm relationships.
8. Role Changes
Women veterans may have trouble balancing roles as caregiver, soldier, wife/mother, etc., while men struggle to be fathers, husbands, and providers after experiencing violence and death. This creates tension at home.
Sexual roles and expectations change following combat-related psychological trauma for many reasons. Veterans need support to address these issues and rebuild healthy intimate relationships.
In what ways do sexual roles and expectations shift following combat-related psychological trauma?
Sexuality is an important part of human life that can be affected by various factors, including combat-related psychological trauma. After experiencing trauma, individuals may experience changes in their sexual desires, behaviors, and relationships. These shifts can be complex and varied, but some common themes include decreased interest in sex, increased anxiety during sexual encounters, and difficulty maintaining intimacy with partners.