When it comes to relational security, there is no one definition that fits all people's needs because every person has different preferences and priorities in their personal life.
For military service members who are often deployed away from home for extended periods, it can be challenging to maintain strong relationships and ensure they feel secure about them. This is especially true when physical presence, communication, and shared experiences are inconsistent due to factors like distance, time zone differences, and differing schedules.
One way that service members may interpret relational security is through trust. Trust is essential in any relationship, but it becomes even more critical for those in long-distance relationships where there is less face-to-face interaction. Service members must trust that their partner will remain faithful while they are gone, as well as keep their promises regarding when they will return. They may also need reassurance that their partner cares deeply for them and values their relationship above all others. Building this type of trust takes effort, patience, and communication between both partners.
Another way that service members may interpret relational security is by establishing boundaries. Boundaries help create a sense of safety and comfort within a relationship, which can be difficult when physical contact is limited or absent. These boundaries can include setting expectations around communication frequency, sharing details about each other's daily lives, and ensuring that privacy is respected.
Service members may choose to discuss relationship goals with their partner to ensure they are on the same page and have common objectives.
Intimacy plays an important role in creating relational security for service members. While physical touch may not always be possible, intimate conversations and emotional support can fill the void. Open communication about needs and desires can build closeness, even when separated by miles. Shared experiences like watching movies together, sending care packages, or exploring new hobbies over video chat can help maintain connection and strengthen bonds.
Service members understand that maintaining relational security requires effort and commitment from both partners, regardless of physical presence, communication style, or shared experiences. By prioritizing trust, setting boundaries, and engaging in meaningful interactions, these individuals can overcome distance and time zone differences to cultivate strong relationships that stand the test of time.
How do service members interpret relational security when physical presence, communication, and shared experiences are inconsistent?
According to research on service member mental health, many military personnel struggle with feelings of relational insecurity due to the nature of their careers which frequently require extensive time away from home and family. This can lead to a lack of physical closeness, communication, and shared experiences that may leave them feeling disconnected from loved ones and uncertain about the status of their relationships.