Military culture is known for its strict adherence to rules and regulations that govern every aspect of life within its ranks. This includes a code of conduct that discourages expressing emotions, which is considered a sign of weakness or vulnerability.
Suppressing one's emotions can have serious consequences on personal and interpersonal relationships, particularly when it comes to establishing intimate bonds. In this article, we will explore how military culture's emphasis on emotional suppression impacts long-term development of relational intimacy and sexual expression.
One way military culture influences relational intimacy is through its emphasis on maintaining a distance from others. The military fosters an environment where soldiers are expected to be emotionally detached, independent, and self-reliant, traits that may hinder the development of close bonds with other people. Soldiers who struggle to connect with their loved ones due to their military training may find themselves at a disadvantage when attempting to build meaningful relationships outside of the service. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and difficulty forming strong connections with partners.
Soldiers may feel like they do not deserve love and affection because they have been taught to view such sentiments as unnecessary luxuries that distract them from their mission.
Military culture also encourages machismo, an attitude that values masculinity and toughness over emotional expression. Men who are socialized in this manner often struggle to communicate their needs and desires effectively, leading to difficulties in establishing healthy relationships. They may avoid vulnerable topics and shut down when confronted with their partner's emotional issues. Women who are exposed to these attitudes may internalize them and develop negative attitudes toward men who express their emotions or seek help. As a result, both genders may experience challenges in establishing open communication and trust in their relationships.
Military culture prioritizes group loyalty over individual well-being, which can create barriers to building intimate relationships. Soldiers must put the interests of their unit before their personal needs, making it difficult to share personal information or show vulnerability without feeling guilty. This can lead to resentment, mistrust, and ultimately relationship breakdowns.
In terms of sexual expression, suppressing emotions can make it challenging for soldiers to communicate their desires and boundaries, leading to confusion and misunderstandings within their relationships. This can be particularly problematic if there is a power dynamic between partners, as one person may feel coerced into engaging in activities they would not otherwise consent to. Suppressing feelings can also cause physical discomfort during sex, reducing pleasure and increasing the risk of injury.
Some research suggests that military service can promote positive relational outcomes by fostering strong bonds among comrades. The shared experiences, sacrifices, and traumas of military life can create a sense of camaraderie and empathy that translates to civilian life. These bonds may facilitate more comfortable conversations about sensitive topics like love and sex, allowing for greater intimacy and mutual respect. Nevertheless, even these benefits come with potential downsides, such as a tendency towards promiscuity or difficulty integrating back into civilian society after leaving the military.
To address these issues, therapy can provide an opportunity for soldiers to process their experiences and learn healthier communication strategies. Couples counseling can help them navigate the unique challenges posed by military culture and build stronger relationships.
Educational programs that teach emotional regulation and effective communication skills can equip soldiers with tools to manage their emotions outside of the service.
Military culture's emphasis on emotional suppression impacts long-term development of relational intimacy and sexual expression, creating barriers to healthy relationships both inside and outside of the service.
With proper support and resources, soldiers and their partners can work together to overcome these challenges and establish fulfilling, meaningful connections.
In what ways does military culture's emphasis on emotional suppression influence the long-term development of relational intimacy and sexual expression?
The military often teaches its members to suppress their emotions for various reasons, such as maintaining composure under pressure and following orders without hesitation. This can have significant implications for their long-term development of relational intimacy and sexual expression. Firstly, individuals who are trained to bottle up their feelings may struggle with open communication and vulnerability in relationships. This can lead to difficulties establishing trust, honesty, and closeness with others.