There has been growing interest in understanding how military deployments can affect relationships, especially intimate ones. Deployment is one of the most stressful events that a couple may experience together and it often brings about significant challenges to their relationship. Despite these challenges, some couples are able to sustain their bond during deployment while others struggle to keep their relationship afloat. Researchers have noted that healthy and strong relationships before deployment can help couples better navigate the strain of separation and ultimately emerge from deployment stronger than ever. This begs the question: Can intimate relationships provide a foundation for long-term family stability after deployment? The answer to this question is complicated and depends on many factors, including the specific nature of the relationship, the length and frequency of deployments, and the individual coping strategies of both partners.
Research suggests that strong communication, shared interests and values, and mutual support play a key role in maintaining intimacy and strengthening family bonds during and after deployment.
Throughout this article, we will explore the various ways in which intimacy and long-term family stability can be maintained or even enhanced by deployments. We will discuss the benefits of having open communication with your partner, engaging in meaningful activities together, prioritizing time spent together, and seeking outside support when needed. By examining these aspects of intimate relationships, we hope to provide practical advice for service members and their families on how to build resilience and foster positive outcomes following deployment. So let's dive into the details!
Open communication is essential for maintaining intimacy and building trust between partners. When partners communicate effectively, they can express their needs, concerns, and expectations clearly, reducing misunderstandings and tension. Open communication also allows each partner to share information about their experiences during deployment, which can help them better understand one another's perspective and feelings.
If one partner feels anxious about being apart while the other is deployed, they may need reassurance from their partner that everything is okay at home. Similarly, if one partner is feeling lonely or isolated, it is important for them to reach out to their partner for support and connection. Research has shown that couples who are able to communicate effectively before deployment have an easier time transitioning back to life together afterward.
Engaging in meaningful activities together is crucial for maintaining intimacy. Whether it's cooking a meal, going for a hike, or watching a movie, doing things you both enjoy can bring you closer together and remind you why you fell in love in the first place. Spending quality time with your partner also helps create new memories and strengthen existing ones, making it more likely that your relationship will last beyond deployment. This doesn't mean that you should always do exactly what your partner likes; instead, try finding common ground and finding ways to compromise so that everyone enjoys themselves.
Prioritizing time spent together is critical for maintaining intimacy. This means setting aside specific times each day or week to connect as a couple without distractions such as work or social media. Try scheduling regular date nights or even just taking some time out of your day to chat with each other. This shows your partner that you care about them and want to spend time connecting on a deeper level. It also allows for spontaneity and creativity when it comes to planning activities together. Don't forget to make sure that each person gets enough alone time too; this can be particularly important during deployments when there may not be much opportunity for personal reflection or self-care.
Seeking outside support when needed can help couples navigate difficult conversations and situations. If one partner needs extra emotional support, they might benefit from talking to friends, family members, or professionals such as therapists or counselors. Military OneSource offers free confidential non-medical counseling services to eligible service members and their families, which can provide valuable resources and support during stressful times like deployment. In addition, organizations like Blue Star Families offer peer-to-peer support groups where military spouses can meet and share experiences with others who understand what they are going through.
While deployments can put a strain on any relationship, intimate partnerships have the potential to remain strong by focusing on communication, shared interests and values, quality time spent together, and seeking outside support when necessary. These strategies can lay a foundation for long-term stability after deployment, helping couples maintain their bond and build resilience in challenging circumstances. By prioritizing these aspects of intimacy, we hope to equip military families with practical advice for navigating the unique challenges of military life.
Can intimate relationships provide a foundation for long-term family stability after deployment?
Yes, intimate relationships can provide a strong foundation for long-term family stability following deployment. Research shows that when military personnel and their partners experience positive communication and support during times of separation, they are more likely to develop and maintain healthy relationships (Burgoon, 2014).