Social isolation is defined as the state of being isolated from others physically and/or psychologically, which can be caused by various factors such as geographical separation, disability, job requirements, health conditions, personal choice, or cultural norms. It has been shown to have negative effects on mental health, physical wellbeing, emotional stability, and overall quality of life.
Its impact on romantic partnerships remains unclear. In this article, we will explore how social isolation affects the longevity and quality of romantic partnerships in the military. The discussion will draw upon research findings and personal experiences of military couples who have experienced prolonged periods of social isolation due to deployments, relocations, and work demands. We will discuss the effects of social isolation on communication, intimacy, trust, and commitment within military relationships.
We will offer recommendations for addressing the challenges posed by social isolation and maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships in the military context.
The Impact of Social Isolation on Military Relationships:
Studies have shown that social isolation can have a detrimental effect on romantic relationships in general, leading to decreased satisfaction, increased conflict, and higher rates of dissolution (Kelly & Emery, 2015).
There is limited research specifically focused on the impact of social isolation on military relationships. A study conducted by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that extended deployments can negatively impact marriages, causing couples to feel less satisfied with their relationship, more distressed, and more likely to divorce (LeardMann et al., 2017). This finding suggests that social isolation during deployment may be particularly problematic for military relationships.
Another factor that can contribute to social isolation in military relationships is frequent relocation. Many military families move frequently, often to unfamiliar places far from family and friends. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, disconnection, and stress, which can affect the quality of the marriage (Burton, 2018). In addition, the unique demands of military life, such as long hours, travel, and constant readiness, can also contribute to social isolation and strain on relationships.
Personal Experiences of Military Couples:
To gain a deeper understanding of how social isolation impacts military relationships, we spoke with several active-duty service members who had experienced prolonged periods of separation due to deployment or work requirements. One couple told us about how they struggled to maintain communication while apart, which led to misunderstandings and tension when they reunited. Another couple described how they felt emotionally distant from each other, despite their efforts to stay connected through technology.
One spouse shared her experience of feeling isolated and alone during her partner's deployment, even though she was surrounded by other military families. These personal accounts demonstrate the varied ways in which social isolation can affect romantic partnerships in the military context.
The Impact of Social Isolation on Communication:
Communication is essential for healthy relationships, but it can be especially challenging when couples are separated by distance or time differences (Ross & Mihaly, 2016). Social isolation can make communication even more difficult, leading to miscommunications, misunderstandings, and conflict.
One study found that frequent relocations can lead to increased conflict and lower relationship satisfaction (Mason et al., 2017). This may be because communication becomes more difficult when couples have less face-to-face interaction and must rely on electronic means such as phone calls or emails. In addition, social isolation can cause feelings of loneliness and disconnection, making it harder to connect with your partner on an emotional level.
The Impact of Social Isolation on Intimacy:
Social isolation can also impact intimacy within a relationship, both physically and emotionally. Physical intimacy may be limited due to geographical separation, while emotional intimacy may suffer due to less frequent interactions and diminished trust. One study found that long deployments were associated with decreased sexual frequency and satisfaction (Kelly & Emery, 2015), suggesting that physical intimacy may be particularly affected by prolonged periods of separation. Emotional intimacy may also be impacted by social isolation, as partners may feel disconnected from each other's daily lives and struggles (LeardMann et al., 2017).
The research suggests that social isolation can have negative effects on romantic relationships in general, but its impact is heightened for military couples who experience frequent separations, relocations, and work demands. Effective strategies for addressing social isolation include maintaining open communication, prioritizing intimacy and connection, and seeking support from family and friends. Military service members and their families should be aware of the challenges posed by social isolation and take steps to mitigate its effects through active efforts to stay connected, express affection, and cultivate trust. By doing so, they can build resilience and strengthen their romantic partnerships despite the unique challenges of military life.
How does social isolation impact the longevity and quality of romantic partnerships in the military?
Social isolation is a common experience among individuals who are part of the military community, including those serving abroad or on deployment, as well as their family members at home. This can have significant implications for both the duration and quality of romantic relationships. Firstly, prolonged periods of separation can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and disconnection, which can strain even the strongest of relationships.