Frequent relocation is becoming increasingly common among military families due to changes in defense policies.
Research has shown that it can significantly impact the attachment style of both partners, leading to feelings of loneliness, emotional distress, and even infidelity. In this article, we will explore the effects of frequent relocation on military couples' attachment styles, particularly focusing on how it affects their relationship stability and intimacy. We will also discuss possible solutions for managing these challenges.
Attachment Styles
When referring to attachment styles, we mean the emotional bonds between people. These bonds are characterized by trust, security, comfort, dependence, and openness. Military couples often have to deal with long separations, changing living conditions, and new responsibilities while being away from home. This can lead to anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about their partner's feelings towards them and their relationship status. As a result, they may develop different attachment styles than those who stay at one location for extended periods.
Some might become more independent and less reliant on their partner, while others may cling to them more tightly.
Research shows that frequent relocation leads to decreased levels of secure attachment between partners. Secure attachments involve high levels of mutual trust, emotional closeness, and support. They are necessary for healthy relationships and help maintain emotional balance during stressful times. When military couples experience repeated moves or deployment, they may feel insecure about each other's commitment and struggle to form strong connections.
Influence on Intimacy
Frequent relocations can also impact sexual intimacy and physical affection in relationships. Couples must adjust to new surroundings and routines, which can make it harder to establish a comfortable rhythm and routine together.
Distance can create barriers to expressing love and desire, leading to reduced intimacy and satisfaction. This is especially true when communication becomes strained due to time zones and schedules.
Managing Challenges
There are several ways that military couples can manage the challenges of frequent relocation. First, they should communicate openly about their concerns and needs. This includes sharing information about upcoming moves and deployments, as well as discussing how these changes affect them emotionally. Second, they can prioritize quality time together, even if it means making sacrifices elsewhere.
They should seek out resources and support from friends, family, and community organizations dedicated to supporting military families.
How does frequent relocation influence the attachment styles of military couples?
Military families are often forced to move around frequently due to their occupation, which can affect their attachment styles. The attachment theory suggests that individuals form strong bonds with certain people based on emotional closeness, security, and safety. When these factors are disrupted by frequent moves, it can lead to anxiety and fear about abandonment, which can alter how individuals view relationships.