Sexual and romantic bonds are crucial elements that contribute to emotional wellbeing during deployment, which is an extended absence from home for military personnel. These bonds are often formed through physical contact and intimacy between couples before deployment, which helps individuals cope with the stress of separation. Deployment can cause significant psychological strain due to increased feelings of isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which can be alleviated by maintaining sexual and romantic connections with loved ones.
These bonds also present ethical challenges, such as infidelity, adultery, and cheating, especially when they involve multiple partners. This study examines how sexual and romantic bonds affect relational satisfaction, stress coping, and ethical conduct under prolonged deployment.
The current literature provides evidence that sexual and romantic bonds positively influence relational satisfaction, reducing feelings of alienation and promoting closeness between partners. In one study, participants reported higher levels of marital satisfaction after engaging in sexual activity with their spouse compared to those who did not. Another study found that sexual expression improves communication between deployed couples, leading to greater understanding and empathy.
Frequent phone calls and video chats can foster intimacy, increasing the likelihood of successful long-distance relationships.
Sexual and romantic bonds may also lead to unethical behavior, particularly if they violate existing commitments or compromise loyalty. Infidelity and adultery are common during deployments, which can harm both parties involved and disrupt relationships upon reunion. Individuals may also engage in risky behaviors such as casual sex or extramarital affairs, which increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and other health problems.
Coping strategies involving sexual and romantic bonds vary among individuals. Some may use virtual communication and pornography to cope with loneliness, while others prefer physical contact. These strategies have different effects on relationship quality, with frequent communication being more beneficial than pornography use. Deployment is a unique situation where individuals must navigate the challenges of separation and maintain emotional connections with loved ones through sexual and romantic means.
How do sexual and romantic bonds affect relational satisfaction, stress coping, and ethical conduct under prolonged deployment?
The impact of sexual and romantic relationships on relational satisfaction, stress coping, and ethical conduct during long deployments can be significant. Studies have found that individuals who engage in such activities are more likely to experience feelings of isolation and loneliness, which may lead to decreased levels of job satisfaction and increased levels of burnout (Abbott et al. , 2017).