What Strategies Help Couples Maintain Continuity of Relationship During Rapid Redeployments or Relocations?
When it comes to navigating through life's challenges, military couples have unique difficulties because they must balance work demands while trying to stay connected as partners. Military deployments can be particularly difficult for couples since they are often unexpected, sudden, and unpredictable. When one partner is deployed, it can cause emotional stress, communication breakdown, and loneliness that might make it hard for the couple to stay together.
There are ways to keep the relationship alive during rapid redeployments or relocations.
It helps if both members of the couple establish clear communication rules before deployment. They should discuss what types of information they want to share during their time apart and how often they will communicate. This may include setting aside regular times for video chats or phone calls. It could also involve sending each other messages via email or text to check in throughout the day. By having these guidelines in place, it will help them feel more secure in knowing they are still connected even when physically separated.
Couples need to focus on quality rather than quantity of communication. While it might seem like you should try to talk every day, this doesn't always happen in reality. Instead, try to prioritize meaningful interactions over frequency. If a conversation feels rushed, take a break and come back later to continue it. This allows for deeper connection and understanding between partners instead of superficial exchanges.
Don't rely solely on technology-based communication - send letters or cards in addition to emails/phone calls.
Plan ahead for any potential issues that could arise due to distance. Be mindful not to assume things such as "I know what you mean" without checking first. Also, remember that there might be misunderstandings due to cultural differences or different interpretations of words. To prevent arguments from escalating, use active listening skills: repeat back what your partner said in your own words before responding so everyone understands each other better.
Make sure to schedule time together after the deployment ends to reconnect and celebrate successes. Couples who make an effort to stay connected while apart can improve their relationship bond and find new ways to connect with one another. With thoughtful preparation and open communication, military couples can maintain continuity during rapid redeployments or relocations.
What strategies help couples maintain continuity of relationship during rapid redeployments or relocations?
In this paper, I will discuss the impact of frequent relocation on relationships between military spouses and their partners' deployment. The current study investigated how couples can successfully cope with long separations due to military deployments by maintaining a continuous connection through effective communication. Relocation or separation is a common issue faced by military families, which has been linked to an increased likelihood of divorce (Jenkins et al. , 2013).