The article presents a study on how soldiers experience emotional closeness in environments of extreme stress. It compares their experiences to that of civilians in similar situations. Researchers argue that soldiers have different ways of interpreting such situations due to their training and military culture. The article explains the research design, findings, and implications for military psychology. Soldiers are more likely to experience closeness than civilians in dangerous situations due to their social isolation and lack of support from family members.
They also face greater risks and pressures, which can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. The article offers recommendations for improving soldier wellbeing and performance.
Research Design
To examine the perception of emotional closeness among soldiers in extreme environmental stress, researchers recruited 20 male US Army Special Forces operators deployed in Afghanistan. Participants were interviewed using semi-structured interviews, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results revealed four main themes: intimacy, trust, sexuality, and communication. Intimate relationships were defined as those based on mutual respect, trust, and commitment. Trust was characterized by openness, honesty, and vulnerability. Sexuality was linked to physical and emotional attraction, arousal, and pleasure. Communication involved verbal and nonverbal cues, including touch, eye contact, and body language.
Findings
Soldiers experienced intimate relationships with their colleagues, superiors, and subordinates in combat. They described these relationships as close but not romantic or sexual. Civilians, on the other hand, tended to interpret such bonds as platonic friendships. Soldiers' experiences of intimacy were influenced by their training, mission objectives, and personal values.
Some participants reported feeling closer to teammates who shared similar beliefs or had faced similar challenges. Others mentioned that intimacy increased during downtime when they felt safe and relaxed.
Soldiers believed that close relationships could improve morale, teamwork, and decision-making.
Implications for Military Psychology
The findings suggest that military culture shapes how soldiers perceive emotional closeness in extreme stress. It may be necessary to train leaders to recognize and support intimate relationships among their troops. This can include encouraging open dialogue about emotions and providing opportunities for bonding through recreational activities or team-building exercises.
Psychologists should consider the impact of combat stress on intimacy in treatment plans for soldiers returning from deployment. By understanding the role of emotional closeness in soldier wellbeing and performance, we can develop more effective interventions for improving mental health and readiness.
This study offers insights into how soldiers experience emotional closeness in extreme environmental stress. While civilians may view such bonds as platonic friendships, soldiers often describe them as deep and meaningful. Understanding these differences is crucial for supporting soldier wellbeing and improving performance. Future research should explore how gender and sexual orientation affect perceptions of intimacy in combat settings.
Further studies are needed to examine the long-term effects of intimacy on post-deployment adjustment and PTSD symptoms.
How do soldiers interpret emotional closeness when it occurs in situations of extreme environmental stress?
Research has shown that emotional closeness can mean different things for soldiers depending on the situation they are in. Soldiers who experience high levels of stress may view emotional closeness differently than those who do not. In times of war or conflict, soldiers may feel a strong sense of bonding with their fellow soldiers due to the shared experiences they have had together.