Psychological Factors Contributing To Post-Traumatic Relational Growth In Partners Exposed To Combat Or Operational Stress
The trauma experienced by military personnel during combat or operational missions can have profound effects on their mental health and well-being, including disorders such as PTSD.
Research suggests that some individuals may experience positive changes in their relationships following exposure to such stressors. This phenomenon is known as post-traumatic relational growth (PTRG), which refers to the development of stronger and more resilient relationships after experiencing adversity. The psychological factors contributing to PTRG include increased self-awareness, greater appreciation for life, improved communication skills, enhanced trust and intimacy, and altered relationship expectations. These factors are discussed in detail below.
Increased Self-Awareness
Individuals who undergo traumatic experiences often become more self-aware and reflective about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others, leading to greater empathy and compassion towards loved ones. As a result, they become better equipped to handle difficult situations and communicate effectively with their partners.
Increased self-awareness allows them to identify and work through any unresolved issues that may have contributed to previous relationship problems.
Greater Appreciation For Life
Combat or operational stress can lead to a heightened awareness of mortality and the importance of living each day to its fullest. This awareness can translate into a renewed sense of gratitude and appreciation for life's joys, including the relationship with one's partner. Individuals may prioritize their time together and focus on creating meaningful memories rather than mundane activities. As a result, their relationships become more fulfilling and satisfying.
Improved Communication Skills
Trauma exposure can also enhance an individual's ability to communicate effectively with their partner. People exposed to combat or operational stress tend to be more attuned to nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice. This increased sensitivity enables them to better understand their partner's needs and desires, resulting in improved communication skills.
Trauma survivors may learn to express themselves more openly and honestly, leading to deeper connection and intimacy.
Enhanced Trust And Intimacy
The trust and intimacy between partners is often strengthened after experiencing adversity. Couples who weather the storm together develop a stronger bond and feel more secure in each other's presence. They learn to rely on each other emotionally and physically, leading to greater emotional and physical closeness. This enhanced intimacy can promote healing and create a safe space for both individuals to process their experiences and grow together.
Altered Relationship Expectations
PTRG can involve a shift in relationship expectations. Trauma survivors may no longer expect perfection from their partners but instead appreciate their flaws and imperfections. They learn to accept their loved ones for who they are and forgive past mistakes, creating a healthier dynamic within the relationship.
These psychological factors contribute to post-traumatic relational growth by fostering resilience, improving communication, enhancing intimacy, and altering relationship expectations.
What psychological factors contribute to post-traumatic relational growth in partners exposed to combat or operational stress?
Post-traumatic relational growth refers to the ability of romantic partners who have experienced trauma together to form resilient relationships that are stronger than before their experience. This phenomenon is influenced by several psychological factors, including empathy, communication, trust, intimacy, vulnerability, and mutual support. Empathy allows partners to understand each other's experiences and feelings more deeply, leading to greater compassion and understanding between them.