How does exposure to trauma or combat-related moral injury influence relational satisfaction, sexual functioning, and emotional closeness?
Exposure to traumatic experiences can have significant impacts on individual's mental health, leading to a wide range of psychological symptoms including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and more. These adverse effects are often linked to impaired interpersonal functioning, such as increased conflict in romantic relationships, decreased trust, and difficulty establishing new bonds.
Individuals who experience trauma may engage in risky sexual behaviors or have difficulties achieving and maintaining sexual arousal or orgasm.
Recent research has suggested that there is a specific form of trauma - moral injury - that has unique implications for intimate relationships, particularly within military populations. Moral injury refers to the distress and self-blame experienced when an individual violates their personal values or beliefs during combat. Studies suggest that this type of trauma may affect sexual functioning, relational satisfaction, and emotional closeness differently than other forms of trauma. In this article, I will discuss how moral injury influences these three domains and provide practical strategies for improving interpersonal outcomes.
Impact on Sexual Functioning
Moral injury can negatively impact sexual functioning in several ways. First, individuals with moral injuries may feel guilt or shame about their actions, which can lead to reduced sexual desire and arousal. Second, moral injury may result in increased avoidance of sex, which can further exacerbate negative feelings toward one's partner. Third, moral injury may be associated with greater relationship conflict, which can erode both partners' sexual desires.
Moral injury may increase hypervigilance and anxiety during sexual encounters, leading to difficulty maintaining an erection or reaching orgasm.
Impact on Relational Satisfaction
The effects of moral injury on relational satisfaction are complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, individuals who experience moral injury often struggle to trust themselves and others, which can limit their ability to build close, meaningful bonds. On the other hand, the traumatic nature of combat experiences can create a sense of camaraderie among soldiers, leading to strong social support networks within military units. This contradiction creates a unique set of challenges for couples where only one individual has experienced moral injury.
A soldier returning from deployment with moral injury may experience heightened distrust and suspicion towards his or her partner, despite having a long history together. Similarly, partners without moral injury may have trouble understanding their loved one's new behaviors, attitudes, or emotions. These differences can lead to misunderstandings and conflict, ultimately undermining relational satisfaction.
Impact on Emotional Closeness
Emotional closeness is a key component of healthy relationships, but it too can be impacted by moral injury. Moral injury may cause individuals to withdraw emotionally from their partners, creating distance and disconnection.
Moral injury can make it difficult for individuals to identify and express their own emotions, further hindering communication and intimacy.
Research suggests that emotional regulation strategies such as mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals cope with moral injury and improve interpersonal outcomes. By practicing these techniques, individuals can learn to manage negative thoughts and feelings related to their past experiences, fostering greater emotional connection in their current relationships.
Moral injury is a unique form of trauma that affects sexual functioning, relational satisfaction, and emotional closeness. Those who experience moral injury must navigate complex psychological symptoms while maintaining strong relationships.
There are several strategies available to help individuals cope with this type of trauma, including mindfulness meditation, CBT, and relationship education. With the right support and resources, military personnel and their partners can build resilient, fulfilling relationships despite the challenges posed by combat-related trauma.
How does exposure to trauma or combat-related moral injury influence relational satisfaction, sexual functioning, and emotional closeness?
Research has shown that exposure to traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on various aspects of an individual's life, including their relationships, sexual functioning, and emotional well-being. Moral injury, which is often experienced by those who have been involved in military combat, can further exacerbate these effects.