The purpose of this article is to explore how individuals who have had traumatic combat experiences can form meaningful partnerships with one another.
The term "shared combat experience" refers to a situation where two or more people share a common military background. This includes being deployed together, witnessing similar events during battle, and working side-by-side in close quarters. It also involves sharing hardships like facing dangerous situations, managing fear, surviving trauma, and coping with loss. Shared combat experiences often lead to deep bonds that last beyond the battlefield. These connections are based on trust, loyalty, shared values, and understanding.
One study found that soldiers who share combat experiences tend to seek out partners who have undergone similar experiences, even if they are not from the same unit or country. They may be attracted to someone who has experienced the same type of combat situation as them, such as seeing the aftermath of a bombing attack or fighting against a specific enemy force. Sharing these experiences helps build a sense of camaraderie and trust between partners, which can then develop into romantic relationships.
In addition to seeking out partners with similar combat experiences, veterans may also feel comfortable forming relationships with those who understand their emotional state. Combat exposure can cause intense feelings of isolation, guilt, shame, and anger.
When they find someone else who has experienced the same emotions, they can relate better and feel less alone. A partner who understands their struggles and provides support can make it easier for them to cope with these emotions.
Shared combat experiences can create a strong sense of bonding between soldiers. Many veterans report feeling a deep connection to their fellow servicemembers because they went through hell together. This sense of belonging is important for mental health and well-being, especially in terms of PTSD symptoms. Studies show that those who feel more connected to their unit have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
The psychological processes underlying partnerships formed by soldiers with shared combat experiences include:
1. Emotional intimacy - Soldiers form emotional bonds based on shared experiences and trauma. They seek out partners who understand their emotional state and provide support.
2. Trust - Veterans are drawn to partners who share their values and beliefs about military service. They feel safer and more secure with someone they know will respect their decisions and actions.
3. Shared identity - Partnerships built on shared combat experiences help individuals define themselves as part of a larger community or group. They may seek out others who understand what it means to be a soldier or a veteran.
4. Traumatic stress coping mechanisms - When faced with traumatic events, such as witnessing death or destruction during battle, soldiers often turn to each other for comfort and reassurance. This can lead to forming deeper relationships over time.
5. Mutual understanding - Having shared combat experiences helps partners understand one another's thoughts and feelings without explanation. They may be able to read body language and pick up on cues that others would miss.
6. Feeling of kinship - Many soldiers develop a sense of kinship with fellow servicemembers, which translates into romantic relationships. They may see them as family or even brothers/sisters from another mother.
7. Common goals - Shared combat experiences also create common goals, such as supporting each other in civilian life or advocating for veterans' rights. These goals bring people together and strengthen relationships.
What psychological processes underlie partnerships formed between soldiers with shared combat experiences?
Psychologists suggest that the formation of bonds between soldiers who have experienced combat together can be explained by the phenomenon known as "crisis socialization. " This is a process whereby individuals develop strong relationships during difficult situations that require intense teamwork, trust, and cooperation. In times of crisis, people tend to form closer relationships than they would otherwise because they need support and camaraderie from their peers.