Moral injury is a term used to describe the psychological and emotional impact of witnessing, participating in, or failing to prevent acts that violate an individual's core beliefs about right and wrong. For some individuals who have served in war zones, this can include experiencing or perpetrating violence against civilians, witnessing death or destruction of property, or engaging in actions that contradict their personal values. These experiences can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and despair that interfere with their sense of self-worth and ability to form lasting romantic bonds. In the context of veterans' lives, moral injury has been linked to increased risk for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidality. It also affects how they relate to others, including their partners, family members, friends, and coworkers. One aspect of relationships that may be particularly affected by moral injury is sexual intimacy and satisfaction. Veterans who experience moral injury may feel disconnected from their bodies, ashamed of their desires and urges, and unable to express themselves sexually without fear of judgment or rejection. This can lead to difficulties forming close bonds with partners, as well as challenges maintaining existing relationships.
Moral injury may make it difficult for veterans to trust their partner's motives or intentions, leading to increased conflict and distrust within the relationship. This can create a cycle of emotional distance and withdrawal that further exacerbates the problem. To address these issues, veterans may benefit from therapy or counseling that focuses on understanding and processing their moral injuries. They may also find support through peer groups or community organizations that provide a safe space to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Addressing moral injury requires openness, vulnerability, and willingness to work through difficult emotions and memories. With time and effort, however, many veterans are able to heal and establish fulfilling, meaningful romantic connections that reflect their values and priorities.
How does moral injury interfere with veterans' sense of sexual self-worth and ability to form lasting romantic bonds?
Moral injuries experienced by military veterans have been linked to their difficulties forming meaningful romantic relationships and maintaining them long-term. One study found that 20% of male veterans reported being unable to develop romantic feelings for someone due to PTSD symptoms, which was a contributing factor in their moral injury (Cavanaugh et al. , 2018).