External Support Networks: Defining Deployment
Deployment is a common event for members of the military, as they are required to serve their country outside of their homes for extended periods of time. This can be difficult for both service members and their partners, as it can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
Research has shown that having strong external support networks can help to alleviate these issues and sustain intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction during deployment.
External support networks refer to social groups such as friends, family members, coworkers, and others who provide emotional and practical support to individuals going through challenging life events. These networks can play an important role in supporting service members and their families during deployments, providing them with a sense of connection and belonging even when they are physically apart.
How External Support Networks Can Sustain Intimacy During Deployment
One way that external support networks can sustain intimacy during deployment is by providing emotional support. When a service member is deployed, they may feel isolated from their partner and miss their daily interactions. Friends and family members who offer emotional support can help ease this feeling of isolation, reminding the service member that they are not alone and still cared for. They can also offer advice and encouragement, helping to keep the relationship strong even when physical distance separates the couple.
Another way that external support networks can sustain intimacy during deployment is by engaging in activities together.
Video chats or phone calls can allow couples to share experiences and maintain a sense of closeness despite being physically apart. Sharing photos and updates on social media can also provide a sense of connection and intimacy.
Shared hobbies or interests can help to foster a sense of togetherness even while one person is deployed.
The Role of Trust in External Support Networks
Trust is essential for any healthy relationship, but it can be particularly important during deployment. Trust in an external support network can provide reassurance that the service member's partner will be supported emotionally and practically during their absence. This can alleviate anxiety about the future and promote feelings of safety and security.
External support networks can also play a role in promoting trust between partners. By offering practical assistance with household tasks or childcare, they can free up time for the service member's partner to focus on their own needs and desires. This can lead to increased trust and understanding between partners, as well as greater appreciation for each other's contributions to the relationship.
The Benefits of Sustaining Relational Satisfaction During Deployment
Sustaining relational satisfaction during deployment can have numerous benefits for both service members and their partners. It can help to reduce stress levels and promote mental and emotional wellbeing, leading to improved overall health and happiness. It can also enhance communication skills and increase resilience, allowing both parties to navigate challenges more effectively.
Sustained relational satisfaction can build stronger bonds between partners, making it easier to reconnect after deployment. When both individuals feel satisfied with the relationship, they are more likely to prioritize it and work through any issues that may arise. This can promote long-term stability and success within the relationship.
What role do external support networks play in sustaining intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction during deployment?
External support networks can be an important factor in sustaining intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction during military deployments because they provide a sense of connection and social support that is often lacking when a service member is away from home for extended periods of time. These networks can include family members, friends, fellow soldiers, religious organizations, online communities, and other forms of social support.