In military training, soldiers learn how to perform under stressful situations involving life-threatening circumstances, such as combat. During these exercises, they experience extreme physical and mental demands that can have lasting effects on their psychological state. Soldiers may develop new skills, such as self-control, adaptability, resilience, and resourcefulness, which become important assets in intimate relationships outside of the battlefield. These lessons learned from relational learning can also help them navigate challenges in personal relationships. Here is an example scenario where a soldier applies her acquired knowledge:
Soldier Mary has experienced several traumatic events during her time in service. She has seen horrific sights and felt intense emotions while working alongside fellow troops in dangerous missions. As a result, she has developed heightened sensitivity towards other people's feelings, especially those who are in distress or facing adversity.
When her partner John comes home after a long day at work feeling exhausted and depressed, Mary can empathize with his mood and offer support. Her ability to read his body language and understand his needs allows her to provide comfort and care without being overbearing or intrusive.
In addition to empathy, Mary has also gained communication skills through exposure to hazardous conditions. She knows how to listen actively and speak clearly, even when emotions run high. This skillset helps her communicate effectively with John in times of conflict or disagreement. When they discuss sensitive topics like finances or parenting, Mary listens attentively and responds thoughtfully. She avoids escalating situations by staying calm and collecting her thoughts before speaking.
Another key takeaway from military training is the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. Mary learned that working together with others towards a common goal creates strong bonds and increases trust among members. In intimate relationships, this lesson translates into valuing each other's opinions and contributions. Instead of seeking unilateral decisions, Mary and John collaborate on plans for the future, such as moving to another city or having children. They prioritize mutual respect and understanding above all else.
Soldiers' experiences with life-threatening events have shaped their personalities and perspectives in positive ways. Their acquired relational learning can be applied to everyday relationships, making them more effective communicators, problem solvers, and team players. By leveraging these abilities, they can build lasting partnerships based on mutual respect and support.
How do soldiers integrate relational learning from exposure to life-threatening events into personal, intimate relationships?
The integration of relational learning from exposure to life-threatening experiences can be different for each soldier depending on their individual background, coping mechanisms, and support system. Some soldiers may find it difficult to relate to others on an intimate level due to their traumatic experience, while others may feel more connected to those who have gone through similar situations. The military often provides counseling services and support groups to help soldiers process these experiences and reintegrate into civilian life.