Researchers have been interested in understanding how individuals navigate their emotions during times of stress for decades, but this is particularly true in situations where individuals are forced to adapt to new circumstances that require them to redefine themselves. This interest was sparked by a growing body of evidence suggesting that there may be unique challenges associated with navigating emotions in contexts characterized by chronic conflict, violence, and war. Specifically, research has suggested that these contexts can foster an identity based on resilience, stoicism, or emotional restraint rather than openness and expressiveness. In turn, these identities can make it difficult for individuals to engage in certain behaviors related to emotional expression and communication, which may impact both individual wellbeing and interpersonal interactions. As such, it is important to understand how individuals navigate these identities when they experience emotional vulnerability.
It is necessary to clarify what we mean when we refer to resilient or stoic identities. These terms are often used synonymously to describe individuals who demonstrate strength under pressure and exhibit little emotion in response to adverse events.
They can also be understood as two different forms of coping strategies. Resilience involves the ability to bounce back from adversity and maintain functioning despite experiencing significant distress (Masten, 2018). Stoicism, on the other hand, involves suppressing negative feelings and emphasizing rational thinking and control over one's environment (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 20000). Both of these identities share a focus on self-control and the suppression of emotions, but they differ in their emphasis on either returning to baseline levels of functioning or reframing experiences positively (Hamzelou, 2019).
These identities can arise in situations where war, conflict, or violence has been experienced by individuals and families (Farmer et al., 2017).
Children living in areas with high rates of violent crime may develop a sense of resilience that allows them to cope with their surroundings, while others may adopt a more stoic approach to managing stressful situations. This can have implications for their development and wellbeing, as research has shown that suppressing emotions can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and even physical health problems like heart disease (Berkowitz, 1993; Seligman et al., 2018). In turn, this can impact interpersonal relationships and the ability to communicate openly about emotional needs and desires.
One way that individuals navigate emotional vulnerability in contexts characterized by resilience or stoicism is through the use of emotional regulation strategies. These strategies involve actively managing and controlling one's emotions in order to maintain a sense of stability and composure (Gross & Thompson, 2007).
An individual who has developed a resilient identity may engage in deep breathing exercises or positive self-talk when experiencing negative emotions in order to calm themselves down. Similarly, someone who has adopted a stoic identity may focus on reframing their experiences positively or distracting themselves from negative feelings through activities like exercise or hobbies. While these strategies can be helpful in the short term, they can also create barriers to authenticity and intimacy over time if individuals become accustomed to suppressing their emotions (Hamzelou, 2019).
Another strategy for navigating emotional vulnerability in these contexts is through the expression of gratitude. Research has found that expressing gratitude can increase positive emotion and decrease negative affect (Emmons & McCullough, 2003), which can help individuals to break out of cycles of rumination and self-blame that are common in situations where resilience or stoicism are emphasized (Seligman et al., 2018).
It can facilitate social connection and interpersonal communication by encouraging individuals to recognize the support and resources available to them within their communities (Murphy et al., 2015). By focusing on what they have rather than what they lack, individuals with resilient or stoic identities can begin to reconnect with others and build stronger relationships based on mutual understanding and appreciation.
Seeking professional assistance may be necessary for some individuals struggling with emotional vulnerability in contexts characterized by resilience or stoicism. Therapy can provide an opportunity to explore and process emotions in a safe and supportive environment, as well as develop new coping strategies that allow for greater openness and authenticity (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). This approach can be especially helpful for those who feel stuck in patterns of emotional suppression or avoidance, as it allows them to gain perspective and insight into their own experiences without judgment or shame.
Navigating emotional vulnerability in contexts characterized by resilience, stoicism, or emotional restraint requires careful consideration of how these identities impact both individual wellbeing and interpersonal relationships. While these identities can serve important functions during times of stress, they can also create barriers to authentic expression and communication. By using emotional regulation strategies, expressing gratitude, and seeking professional help when needed, individuals can work towards greater emotional awareness, authenticity, and intimacy over time.
How do individuals navigate emotional vulnerability when war has fostered an identity based on resilience, stoicism, or emotional restraint?
Individuals may experience difficulty navigating their emotional vulnerabilities when exposed to conflict situations that require them to demonstrate resiliency, stoicism, or emotional restraint. These behaviors are often instilled at a young age as part of cultural norms and values, and can be reinforced by experiences such as trauma or parental expectations.