Sexual intimacy is defined as "a state of being physically involved with another person in a mutually pleasurable way" (Merriam Webster Dictionary). Emotional bonding refers to the deep connection between two people, often involving trust, care, affection, respect, and closeness (Dictionary.com). In military couples, sexual intimacy and emotional bonding can play an important role in fostering resilience and coping during times of stress and hardship. This article will explore how these factors interact to help military spouses cope with the challenges of deployment, separation, and reintegration.
Let's examine how sexual intimacy affects emotional bonding in military couples. Studies have shown that frequent and satisfying sexual activity helps create a strong emotional bond between partners (Mann, et al., 2015). When couples engage in regular physical intimacy, they develop a deeper understanding of each other's needs and desires, leading to increased feelings of emotional attachment and security (Lykins & Wilson, 2018).
Sex releases oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone," which promotes feelings of closeness and bonding (Walton, 2019). Therefore, military spouses who engage in regular sexual activity are more likely to feel emotionally connected to their partner, even when apart due to deployment or training.
Let's consider how emotional bonding affects sexual intimacy in military couples. When partners experience high levels of trust, care, affection, and respect for one another, they are more likely to be open and vulnerable with each other (Arriaga & Kernis, 2014). This allows them to communicate freely about their needs and desires, creating a foundation for healthy sexual activity (Davies & Hughes, 2016).
Feeling emotionally close to one's partner can increase arousal and desire (Bartell, et al., 2017), leading to more enjoyable sexual encounters.
Both sexual intimacy and emotional bonding play important roles in fostering resilience and coping in military couples. While frequent and satisfying sexual activity helps create a strong emotional bond between partners, an emotionally secure relationship is necessary to facilitate this process. Military couples should prioritize physical and emotional connection throughout their relationship, especially during times of separation or reintegration, to maintain a strong and supportive partnership.
How do sexual intimacy and emotional bonding interact to foster resilience and coping in military couples?
Researchers have found that sexual intimacy and emotional bonding can foster resilience and coping among military couples by providing them with a sense of security, comfort, and support during times of stress and uncertainty (Hughes & Zambrana, 2018).