Soldiers are trained to be disciplined, obedient, and loyal individuals who follow orders without question. This training often involves suppressing their emotions and feelings so that they can focus on completing missions.
This emotional suppression can lead to difficulties when it comes to forming strong bonds with fellow soldiers. Soldiers are expected to form close bonds with their comrades, but they must also prepare for the possibility of losing them in battle. How do soldiers internally cope with the paradox of being emotionally close to comrades while preparing for possible loss?
Soldiers may find themselves struggling to express their emotions due to the strict rules of military life. They are taught not to show weakness or vulnerability, which can make it difficult to connect with others emotionally. In order to maintain an emotional distance from their comrades, some soldiers may engage in activities like drinking or gambling. These activities can serve as a way to avoid thinking about the risks associated with combat and allow soldiers to numb their emotions.
Other soldiers may use humor as a coping mechanism. Humor helps to lighten the mood and allows soldiers to connect with each other on a more personal level.
It can also become a way of avoiding serious topics like death and injury. Some soldiers may use dark humor to try and alleviate the fear of losing their comrades.
Some soldiers may choose to create rituals or traditions that help them feel closer to their comrades. These rituals can involve anything from sharing meals together to taking part in physical challenges. By creating these rituals, soldiers can feel a sense of belonging and connection that helps them through tough times.
The key to coping with this paradox is communication. Soldiers need to be able to talk openly and honestly with their comrades about their feelings and concerns. This can be difficult, but it is essential for building trust and understanding within the unit. When soldiers feel comfortable talking about their emotions, they can better prepare for the possibility of loss and cope with grief when necessary.
How do soldiers internally cope with the paradox of being emotionally close to comrades while preparing for possible loss?
Soldiers in combat are often faced with the difficult task of forming strong bonds and attachments with their fellow servicemen and women while simultaneously preparing for the possibility that they may be separated from them through death or injury. This can create a tension between wanting to stay connected and maintaining emotional distance in order to protect oneself from the potential trauma of losing someone close.