Sexual support can be defined as the provision of emotional, physical, social, financial, and practical assistance to an individual's sexual needs. In today's modern world, it has become a common practice for people to seek sexual support from their partners or outside sources. This article will discuss the effects of sexual support on deployed soldiers in terms of ethical behavior, relational stability, and adaptive coping.
Ethical Behavior:
The effect of sexual support on deployed soldiers' ethical behavior is multifaceted. On one hand, soldiers who receive sexual support may be more likely to engage in unethical behavior such as infidelity, which could lead to trust issues within their relationship.
On the other hand, receiving sexual support may provide them with the necessary resources to maintain high standards of integrity and adhere to military codes of conduct.
If a soldier receives sexual support while away from home, they may feel less tempted to engage in extramarital affairs, thus maintaining their commitment to their partner back home.
Relational Stability:
Receiving sexual support during deployment can also affect the relational stability of deployed soldiers. Soldiers who are deprived of sexual intimacy may develop feelings of resentment, loneliness, and depression, which can negatively impact their relationships when they return home. Conversely, those who receive sexual support may experience increased levels of satisfaction in their relationships and improved communication skills.
Receiving sexual support can help soldiers manage stress and anxiety associated with separation, thereby promoting stronger bonds between partners.
Adaptive Coping:
The effects of sexual support on deployed soldiers' adaptive coping strategies cannot be overlooked. Those who do not receive sexual support may turn to substance abuse or self-harm to cope with the pressures of deployment. In contrast, those who receive sexual support may develop healthier coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, or socializing with fellow soldiers. Sexual support provides an outlet for emotions that would otherwise go unaddressed, leading to better overall mental and physical well-being.
The effect of sexual support on deployed soldiers is multifaceted. While it may lead to ethical issues in some cases, it can promote positive outcomes in others. The benefits of sexual support include enhanced communication, improved relational stability, and better adaptive coping skills. As such, providing sexual support to deployed soldiers should be carefully considered by military leaders and policy makers.
What is the effect of sexual support on ethical behavior, relational stability, and adaptive coping in deployed soldiers?
The study by Gates et al (2014) explored the effects of social support for physical intimacy on the mental health and well-being of military service members who were deployed in combat zones abroad. The researchers surveyed 276 married men and women from three different branches of the US Armed Forces who were serving in Afghanistan.