The reconciliation between emotional suppression required by military duty and the need for relational openness is often challenging for soldiers. Emotional suppression involves an individual's ability to maintain a facade of composure in difficult situations, while being able to remain aware of their own feelings, thoughts, and beliefs. This requires self-control, discipline, and restraint.
It also can lead to detachment from others, which may make them feel isolated and alienated. On the other hand, relational openness involves sharing one's innermost thoughts and feelings with another person, which helps build trust and intimacy. Without this kind of openness, soldiers risk having strained relationships, lack of understanding, and even conflict. To reconcile these two opposing needs, soldiers must develop strategies that allow them to balance both emotions and relationships.
One strategy is to prioritize communication within their close circles. Soldiers should be transparent about their feelings and experiences when they are around family members or friends who understand and support them.
They might share how difficult it was to kill someone during combat or how frustrating it was to follow orders that went against their morals. By doing so, they establish trust, empathy, and connection. Another strategy is to find meaningful ways to express themselves through art, music, writing, or other creative outlets. This allows them to work through their emotions without necessarily sharing them directly.
Soldiers can seek professional help if needed, such as therapy or counseling. It helps them process their experiences, manage stress, and improve their mental health.
The challenge for soldiers is finding a balance between duty and relationship. They need to suppress certain emotions and behaviors while still maintaining connections with loved ones. This requires practice, patience, and commitment. With effort, soldiers can learn to reconcile these conflicting demands and maintain healthy relationships in all areas of life.
How do soldiers reconcile emotional suppression required by duty with the need for relational openness?
Soldiers must balance the need for emotional openness within their relationships while also suppressing certain emotions that are not conducive to their duties on the battlefield. This can be challenging, as they may feel conflicted between their personal lives and military responsibilities. To reconcile these two needs, soldiers may rely on support from their unit and family members to help them manage their emotions.