Soldiers have to be physically and mentally fit for battle and must maintain their physical condition. When they are in combat situations, it is important that they remain focused and avoid showing emotions. Soldiers are expected to show courage, strength, and determination while fighting enemies. They cannot show weakness or fear because this can cause panic and confusion among their team members. Thus, soldiers are often trained not to express their emotions openly.
When soldiers become friends during training or serve together for an extended period, they may develop close bonds and feelings for each other. These feelings can make them vulnerable and put them in a difficult situation if one of them is transferred to another unit or leaves the military. This article will discuss how soldiers navigate relational vulnerability when institutional culture discourages emotional expression.
The first way soldiers navigate relational vulnerability is by creating relationships that don't involve strong emotional ties.
Soldiers might form friendships based on shared interests rather than romantic feelings. They might also limit their interactions with others to superficial topics like sports or hobbies.
Soldiers who feel emotionally close to someone may choose to keep it secret, as revealing these feelings could lead to rejection or ridicule from their peers. Another way soldiers navigate relational vulnerability is by compartmentalizing their feelings. They may pretend that nothing has changed after one of their friends leaves the military, even though they know it has affected them deeply. Some soldiers may try to ignore their feelings altogether.
Another strategy for navigating relational vulnerability is to have clear boundaries and expectations. Soldiers can set limits on what they are willing to talk about or do with each other. They can also avoid situations where there is potential for misunderstanding or conflict. Lastly, some soldiers choose to seek professional help if they feel overwhelmed by their emotions. Therapy can be a safe space for expressing themselves without fear of judgment or reprisal.
Navigating relational vulnerability is challenging for soldiers due to cultural norms surrounding emotional expression. It requires effort and self-awareness to maintain healthy relationships while keeping personal feelings under control.
Understanding and practicing strategies such as those mentioned above can make this process easier.
How do soldiers navigate relational vulnerability when institutional culture discourages emotional expression?
Relational vulnerability is an inherent part of being human. It refers to the risk associated with opening oneself up to another individual or group in order to build relationships that have the potential for deep intimacy but also involve the possibility of rejection, betrayal, and pain. In institutions such as the military, where there may be strict rules around professionalism and self-sufficiency, navigating this vulnerability can be particularly challenging.