Soldiers are trained to follow orders without question, but how does that affect their personal lives?
Long deployments can cause significant changes in soldiers' beliefs about destiny, choice, and relational commitment. This may be especially true for those who serve multiple tours. During deployment, soldiers have little control over where they go or what they do. They must obey orders from superiors and adapt to new situations quickly. Soldiers often form close bonds with comrades during deployments because they depend on each other for safety and support. These experiences can lead to feelings of loyalty and commitment beyond military service.
Some soldiers may feel like they don't have much choice in their life choices due to their job requirements. The constant threat of danger and violence can make it difficult to plan for the future. Many soldiers see themselves as living out a predetermined path, rather than making conscious decisions about their lives.
A soldier might think they were "meant" to join the army, even if they had other options.
Long-term deployments can strain relationships outside of the military. Spouses and family members may become distant or frustrated by the lack of communication. Relationships formed during deployment may also become complicated if the soldier returns home after years away. The soldier may not know how to transition back into civilian life, or they may struggle to reconnect with loved ones. As a result, many soldiers believe that fate determines their romantic partners and marriages, leading them to choose based on practicality instead of passion.
The military lifestyle can create a sense of detachment from normal social norms. Soldiers may see themselves as different from civilians and may question whether they truly fit in at home. This feeling can be amplified by multiple deployments and a lack of control over personal life choices.
Despite these challenges, many soldiers find fulfillment and purpose in serving their country.
Long-term deployments challenge our beliefs about destiny, choice, and relational commitment, but can ultimately lead to growth and self-discovery.
How do long-term deployments influence soldiers' beliefs about destiny, choice, and relational commitment?
Long-term military deployments can have a significant impact on a soldier's views regarding destiny, free will, and relational commitment. On one hand, prolonged separation from loved ones may lead them to believe that their lives are controlled by external factors beyond their control, such as fate or divine intervention.