Many soldiers have reported experiencing difficulties in their romantic relationships after returning from deployment due to changes in their moods and behavior. This can be attributed to several factors such as traumatic experiences during combat, the impact of cultural differences between the military culture and civilian life, and stressors related to family separation. Partners may find themselves struggling to understand why their soldier's mood swings are happening, and this can lead to misunderstandings that threaten relational stability. Inconsistency in emotional responsiveness is one of the most challenging aspects for partners to deal with because it can cause feelings of rejection, distrust, and even fear.
There are strategies that partners can employ to support their relationship despite these fluctuations.
One way to promote relational stability is to communicate openly and honestly about the reasons behind their partner's behavior. Soldiers often feel guilty about their actions or thoughts, which can lead them to withdraw emotionally. By creating a safe space where they can express their concerns, partners can help their soldier navigate through these difficult times.
Partners should try to understand their partner's perspective by asking questions and actively listening to their responses. This helps create an environment where both parties feel heard and understood, leading to increased intimacy and trust.
Another strategy is to focus on positive interactions rather than dwelling on negative ones. When a soldier displays inconsistent behavior, partners can choose to focus on the good moments instead of getting bogged down by the bad. This allows partners to appreciate their soldier's strengths while also understanding their limitations. It can also prevent resentment from building up, which can be detrimental to the relationship.
Partners should seek professional help if necessary to manage any underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A therapist can provide valuable insight into how to cope with these conditions and improve communication between partners.
Supporting relational stability during this time requires patience, compassion, and dedication from both partners. While it may not always be easy, the effort put in will pay off in the long run when the couple emerges stronger than before.
How do partners support relational stability when soldiers' post-deployment emotional responsiveness is inconsistent?
Research suggests that healthy relationships are important for maintaining good mental health. When partners provide their loved ones with positive reinforcement, they can promote relationship stability despite inconsistent emotionally reactive behaviors (Kim, 2017). Positive communication such as showing appreciation, affection, validation, and understanding helps individuals manage difficult situations.