The purpose of this article is to explore how veterans may experience changes in their relationships after they return from military service, particularly related to their ability to express themselves emotionally and sexually. Traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on one's physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and these effects may extend into all aspects of life, including interpersonal relationships. Specifically, this article will examine how veterans adapt relational scripts to accommodate altered emotional and sexual responsiveness caused by trauma.
Changes in Emotional Responsiveness
One way that trauma may affect relational scripts for veterans is through changes in their emotional responsiveness. Veterans who have experienced trauma may find it difficult to express or respond to their emotions in healthy ways. This can lead to problems in their romantic relationships as partners struggle to understand them and connect on an emotional level.
A veteran who has difficulty opening up about their feelings may be less able to communicate effectively with their partner, which could lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
A veteran who has become numb to certain emotions due to trauma may have difficulty recognizing or experiencing joy, love, or excitement in their relationship, which could lead to disengagement or even the end of the relationship.
Alterations in Sexual Responsiveness
Trauma can also cause alterations in sexual responsiveness for veterans. This can manifest in several ways, such as decreased interest in sex, difficulty becoming aroused, or difficulty achieving orgasm. These issues can create tension within the relationship, as partners may feel rejected or unloved if they do not receive the same level of attention or intimacy they once did. Veterans may also develop specific fears or phobias related to sex, making it difficult for them to engage in physical intimacy without feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Adapting Relational Scripts
In order to adapt to these changes in emotional and sexual responsiveness, veterans must work hard to modify their relational scripts. One way this can be done is by developing new strategies for communicating emotions and needs to their partners. This could involve setting aside time each day to talk openly and honestly about how they are feeling, rather than bottling up emotions until they explode in other areas of life. It could also mean seeking professional help to address underlying psychological issues that contribute to their struggles.
Veterans may need to experiment with different forms of non-sexual intimacy to maintain connection and closeness in their relationships. This could include activities like cuddling, holding hands, watching movies together, or simply spending quality time talking. By finding alternative ways to connect emotionally and physically, veterans can still experience a sense of closeness and support from their partner even when sexual intimacy is limited or challenging.
Trauma can have significant effects on the lives of veterans, including their ability to relate to others in an intimate context.
By being aware of these changes and actively working to adapt their relational scripts, veterans can still find meaningful connections and support in their relationships despite any difficulties. With patience, understanding, and effort, both partners can navigate the complexities of post-traumatic stress disorder and emerge stronger and more resilient as a result.
In what ways do veterans adapt relational scripts to accommodate altered emotional and sexual responsiveness caused by trauma?
Many veterans experience symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after their deployment which can affect their ability to form healthy relationships and engage in intimacy with others. Symptoms such as hypervigilance, intrusive memories, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and negative mood can impair their capacity for trust, empathy, communication, and closeness.