Emotional regression is an interesting phenomenon that can occur during prolonged deployments. It involves returning to earlier stages of development or a previous state of mind, often characterized by increased dependence, irritability, anxiety, fear, or withdrawal from others. This can happen when individuals are away from their usual social support systems for extended periods, such as military personnel deployed abroad. Understanding what psychological processes underpin this behavior can help people cope better while they're gone and adjust more quickly upon return.
The primary cause of emotional regression during deployment is separation distress. When individuals are away from home and family for long stretches, they may feel lonely, anxious, or isolated. This can trigger feelings of insecurity, vulnerability, and helplessness, which may lead them to seek comfort in familiar behaviors from childhood or adolescence.
Some adults may regress to clingy or needy behaviors like asking for excessive attention from loved ones back home or crying easily. Others may become preoccupied with material possessions or hobbies as a way to distract themselves from the stress of being apart. These behaviors can be temporary but may persist if left unaddressed.
Another factor contributing to emotional regression during deployment is dissociation. Dissociation is a mental process wherein individuals temporarily lose contact with reality and experience a sense of detachment from themselves or the world around them. This can manifest as daydreaming, forgetfulness, or numbness, and it can make it difficult to focus on tasks or connect emotionally with others. People who dissociate may also engage in self-destructive behaviors like overeating, drinking, or drug use as a coping mechanism.
In addition to separation distress and dissociation, trauma and PTSD can also contribute to emotional regression during deployment. Traumatic experiences such as combat or exposure to violence can cause flashbacks, nightmares, and other symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Individuals suffering from PTSD may feel hypervigilant, jittery, or on edge, making it hard to concentrate on anything else besides their fears and anxieties. They may also exhibit aggression, paranoia, or difficulty connecting with others.
Cultural differences between deployers' home countries and host nations can play a role in emotional regression. Cultural norms surrounding masculinity, femininity, family structure, gender roles, and sexuality can differ significantly between different parts of the world. When these differences are extreme, individuals may struggle to adapt to new social customs or expectations, leading to feelings of isolation and confusion. This can exacerbate existing problems and trigger regressive behavior.
To cope with emotional regression during deployment, individuals should prioritize self-care activities that promote stability and resilience. These might include regular exercise, meditation, journaling, mindfulness practices, or seeking professional counseling. Families back home can also help by maintaining open communication and providing support while loved ones are away. It's essential for both sides to understand what's causing this behavior and work together to address underlying issues. By recognizing the psychological processes at work, we can better prepare ourselves for deployment and return home more quickly afterward.
What psychological processes underlie emotional regression during periods of prolonged deployment?
One possible explanation for emotional regression during periods of prolonged deployment could be that it is an adaptive strategy used by individuals to cope with the stress and discomfort associated with being away from their loved ones and familiar surroundings for extended periods of time. This may involve regressing to behaviors and attitudes characteristic of childhood or adolescence, which can provide a sense of safety and security in the face of uncertainty.