The term "relational dissonance" refers to the psychological state that occurs when individuals experience conflicting feelings toward their significant others due to differences in perceptions about how they should deal with their romantic relationship. In particular, this concept can be applied to military couples, where partners may have different attitudes towards love, trust, commitment, and emotional needs. Soldiers may face unique challenges managing relational dissonance because of the stressful and dangerous nature of their work, which often requires them to put aside personal concerns for national security interests. This article will explore ways that soldiers manage relational dissonance and cope with divergent emotional strategies to maintain healthy relationships while serving their country.
One common way that soldiers may deal with relational dissonance is through communication. When one partner feels frustrated with the other's emotional coping strategies, it is important to express those feelings openly and honestly without resorting to passive-aggressive behavior or withdrawal. Soldiers can practice active listening skills, such as paraphrasing what the other person has said to ensure understanding, and engage in constructive conflict resolution techniques. It may also be helpful to create ground rules for talking about sensitive topics like deployment or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Both parties could agree not to bring up negative experiences from the past unless explicitly requested.
Another approach is to focus on shared activities and experiences, such as planning date nights or vacations together. This allows couples to bond over positive memories instead of dwelling on disagreements.
Soldiers can seek support from friends or family members who understand their situation, whether it's a fellow veteran or a counselor specializing in military relationships. These individuals may offer alternative perspectives on how to navigate relational dissonance and suggest new strategies for managing stress and anxiety.
Some couples find comfort in practicing mindfulness meditation or other relaxation techniques to reduce tension and improve overall well-being.
Successful management of relational dissonance requires patience, compassion, and empathy from both partners. Each individual should strive to respect each other's needs and desires while seeking compromises that satisfy everyone involved. The key is to communicate clearly and avoid blaming or shaming one another for differences in coping strategies. By working through these challenges together, military couples can strengthen their relationship and build resilience against future adversity.
How do soldiers manage relational dissonance arising from divergent emotional coping strategies?
Soldiers may face different emotional reactions while being on duty or after returning home due to the nature of their work environment. This can lead to dissonance between them and their family members, friends, or partners who have different expectations and beliefs about how they should act and feel. Some people might choose not to talk about their experiences, while others might share too much information. This can create tension and misunderstanding.