Combat trauma refers to mental health conditions developed after experiencing or witnessing extreme violence, such as war, terrorist attacks, or natural disasters. It is estimated that about one-third of military veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can result from exposure to physical injuries, death, loss, fear, guilt, depression, anxiety, nightmares, or flashbacks. Many combat veterans also experience changes in their romantic priorities and sexual behaviors following their return home. In this article, I will discuss how combat trauma influences sexual behavior and romantic priorities.
Exposure to Combat Trauma Can Lead to Changes in Sexual Behavior
Experiencing or witnessing horrific events during combat can cause many individuals to feel a sense of detachment from others, including partners. This detachment often leads to avoidance of intimate relationships and decreased interest in sex. Veterans may become less interested in sexual activities due to a lack of desire for physical contact or fear of being hurt emotionally. Some may engage in unhealthy sexual practices like pornography use, excessive masturbation, or risky behaviors. Others might find it difficult to maintain arousal, leading to premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.
Combat veterans may experience difficulties with orgasm or become numb to pleasure.
Those who have experienced combat trauma may struggle to communicate their needs and desires to their partner. They may feel ashamed of their experiences, unable to open up about them, or worry that they will burden their partner with their emotions. This can lead to a disconnect between the couple, resulting in conflict or distance.
Some people who have been exposed to combat trauma develop sexual addictions as a way of coping with their traumatic memories. These addictions can include watching pornography excessively, engaging in multiple affairs, or frequenting strip clubs or prostitutes. Such addictions are harmful not only to the individual but also to their romantic partner and family life. In some cases, combat veterans may even lose interest in romance entirely.
Exposure to Combat Trauma Can Lead to Changes in Romantic Priorities
Combat trauma can cause individuals to reevaluate what is important in relationships. Many veterans may prioritize safety over love, affection, or intimacy, seeking stability instead of connection. They may become more possessive, jealous, or controlling of their partners due to fears of losing them or being betrayed. Some veterans may be less interested in commitment or long-term relationships, preferring short-term flings or casual encounters. Others may be drawn to unhealthy or abusive relationships because of feelings of powerlessness or lack of control.
Those who have experienced combat trauma may struggle with trust issues, which can undermine intimate connections. Trust requires vulnerability, and many individuals who have been through trauma find it difficult to open up emotionally or physically. This can lead to communication breakdowns, suspicion, or paranoia, making it challenging to form close bonds with others. It may also prevent individuals from feeling safe enough to share intimate details about themselves.
Combat trauma can alter sexual attraction and desires. Some individuals may develop a preference for certain types of physical attributes, such as tattoos, scars, or muscularity. Others may find themselves attracted to individuals they perceive as dangerous or violent, which can create unhealthy dynamics in relationships. Such changes in sexual attraction can complicate romantic priorities and make finding compatible partners challenging.
Exposure to combat trauma can cause significant changes in both sexual behavior and romantic priorities. Veterans may experience difficulty with arousal, avoidance of intimacy, addiction, possessiveness, jealousy, distrust, and shifts in sexual attraction. These changes can impact relationships, causing conflict, distance, and dysfunction.
There are various treatments available for PTSD and other mental health conditions that can help combat veterans heal and improve their sex life and romantic life. With support, understanding, and patience, couples can navigate the challenges associated with combat trauma and build strong, loving relationships.
How does exposure to combat trauma influence sexual behavior and romantic priorities?
Exposure to combat trauma can have significant effects on an individual's sexual behavior and romantic priorities. It is not uncommon for individuals who have experienced combat trauma to exhibit symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can include hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors.