Soldiers are trained to be physically and mentally tough, but they also have emotions and needs just like everyone else. They may find it difficult to express their feelings due to the stigma attached to showing weakness and vulnerability. This can lead to problems in personal relationships, which is why some soldiers prefer to avoid them altogether. In this article, we will explore how soldiers reconcile the protective functions of emotional restraint with the relational need for warmth, touch, and affection.
The military training that emphasizes strength, discipline, and self-control can make it challenging for soldiers to show their emotions openly. They may feel ashamed if they cry or show fear during combat or other dangerous situations.
This does not mean that they do not have strong emotional bonds with others. Soldiers often develop deep friendships and close connections within their units, even when serving far from home. These relationships can provide much-needed support and camaraderie, helping them cope with the stresses of military life.
Some soldiers find creative ways to express their love and affection without violating military rules or protocols.
They might write letters or send care packages to family members, telling them how much they miss them and look forward to being reunited. Others might share inside jokes or engage in playful banter to maintain a sense of humor and connection despite long separations. Some soldiers may even choose to stay in touch with former lovers or partners while deployed, albeit discreetly.
Soldiers may also seek physical intimacy through hugging, kissing, or cuddling with fellow service members, but only in appropriate contexts and settings. Touch can be comforting and reassuring during difficult times, such as before going into battle or after returning from a mission. It is important for soldiers to understand the boundaries of acceptable behavior and respect the privacy of others.
While some soldiers prefer to keep their emotions private, others find it helpful to talk about their feelings with trusted friends or family members back home. This can help them process traumatic experiences and build stronger relationships based on mutual understanding and empathy. Counseling services are also available for those who need additional support.
Soldiers must balance their protective functions with the relational needs of warmth, touch, and affection. By finding healthy ways to connect with others, they can maintain strong bonds that provide emotional and social support throughout their time in service. It takes effort, practice, and self-awareness to navigate these challenges, but many soldiers find creative solutions that work for them.
How do soldiers reconcile the protective functions of emotional restraint with the relational need for warmth, touch, and affection?
Soldiers must constantly balance their emotions between two opposing forces: the need to remain objective and detached from any potential danger while still being able to maintain strong bonds with those around them. The most common way they achieve this is by developing an inner core of emotional stability that allows them to deal with stressful situations without letting it interfere with their duties. This can be achieved through training, discipline, and self-reflection.