Internalized stigma refers to an individual's belief that society views them negatively due to some aspect of their identity such as race, gender, ethnicity, age, disability, social class, or appearance. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, low self-esteem, and isolation. Internalized stigma is often internalized from societal norms, media representations, family, peers, workplace culture, or personal experiences. Internalized stigma can impact all areas of life including interpersonal relationships, employment, education, healthcare, housing, and political participation.
Combat stress refers to trauma experienced during military service, particularly in combat situations. Common symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, irritability, avoidance, hypervigilance, and anger. Combat stress can cause problems in relationships with partners, friends, coworkers, children, and other loved ones. Veterans may feel distant, angry, irritable, unpredictable, anxious, fearful, guilty, ashamed, and hopeless. These factors can create conflict and distance within intimate relationships.
Intersectionality theory explains how multiple identities intersect to shape lived experience and outcomes.
A Black woman veteran may experience both racism and sexism which influences her access to resources, opportunities, and power. The intersection of internalized stigma with combat stress for this group may exacerbate the effects of each on relational satisfaction and intimacy.
Studies have shown that internalized stigma and combat stress can influence relationship dynamics. Individuals who are ashamed about their identity or struggles with mental health may avoid seeking help, leading to negative communication patterns, less support, decreased trust, and lower levels of emotional intimacy. Veterans who experience guilt or shame related to their service may withdraw from intimacy, creating tension and distance between themselves and their partners. Internalized stigma also affects sexual attraction, desire, arousal, and pleasure, potentially impacting relationship satisfaction.
To improve relational outcomes for those experiencing internalized stigma and combat stress, interventions should address the underlying issues causing distress and offer effective coping strategies. Couples therapy can provide support for communication, problem-solving, empathy, and mutual respect. Support groups can connect individuals with others facing similar challenges. Peer mentoring programs can empower people to find meaning in their lives and work towards positive change. By promoting self-acceptance, resilience, and growth, these interventions can promote healing and increase relational satisfaction.
How does internalized stigma intersect with combat stress to influence relational satisfaction and intimacy?
Internalized stigma occurs when an individual views their group negatively, leading to feelings of shame and embarrassment, which can impact relationships. Combat stress is a form of trauma that individuals may experience during military service due to exposure to violence, danger, or other adversity. Both internalized stigma and combat stress can affect relational satisfaction and intimacy in different ways.