Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can occur following exposure to situations such as military combat, natural disasters, sexual assault, car accidents, or physical abuse. Symptoms include re-experiencing the trauma through nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, hyperarousal, and negative changes in mood and cognition. PTSD has been linked to difficulties in close relationships, including increased conflict and decreased satisfaction.
Some couples exposed to combat have reported post-traumatic growth (PTG), which involves positive psychological changes following adversity. This research aims to explore how PTG and relational strengthening are facilitated in combat couples.
What is Post-Traumatic Growth?
Post-traumatic growth is defined as positive psychological changes resulting from the experience of a traumatic event. These changes may include improved self-awareness, spiritual development, appreciation for life, personal strength, or improved interpersonal relations. PTG has been found to be associated with higher levels of resilience, optimism, and social support. The concept was first proposed by psychologists Richard Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun, who identified five main domains of growth: relating to others, new possibilities, personal strength, recognition of priorities, and spiritual change. Research suggests that the development of PTG requires a combination of factors, including emotional processing, social support, and meaning-making.
How Does Post-Traumatic Growth Affect Couple Relationships?
Research on military spouses suggests that PTG can lead to better relationship outcomes, such as greater attachment security, enhanced trust, and stronger communication. One study examined the impact of PTG on marital functioning among veterans with PTSD and their partners. Participants who experienced PTG had higher levels of marital adjustment, intimacy, commitment, and overall satisfaction compared to those without PTG. Another study investigated the relationship between PTG and relationship quality in female veterans and their male partners. Findings indicated that PTG was positively correlated with relationship satisfaction and stability.
Psychological Factors Facilitating Post-Traumatic Growth
Several psychological processes have been identified as facilitators of post-traumatic growth in combat couples. These include acceptance of trauma, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and cognitive restructuring. Acceptance involves acknowledging and embracing the reality of the trauma experience, while allowing it to become part of one's identity. Mindfulness involves present-moment awareness, nonjudgmental attention to thoughts and feelings, and an openness to new experiences. Emotion regulation involves managing difficult emotions through strategies like deep breathing or self-compassion. Cognitive restructuring involves challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with more adaptive ones.
Couple Therapy for Trauma-Exposed Couples
Couple therapy is a treatment approach that can help combat couples experiencing distress due to trauma exposure. It involves helping partners develop skills for communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. Therapists may also assist in processing traumatic memories, fostering emotional connection, and promoting resilience. One study found that couple therapy significantly improved marital functioning among military families dealing with PTSD. Another study investigated the effects of narrative therapy, which helps individuals reframe their life stories by focusing on positive aspects. Narrative therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD and increasing relationship satisfaction.
Post-traumatic growth and relational strengthening are possible outcomes for combat couples following trauma exposure. Psychological factors such as acceptance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and cognitive restructuring can facilitate these processes. Couple therapy is a valuable intervention for trauma-exposed couples seeking support and guidance. With appropriate care and support, military couples exposed to combat can achieve lasting improvements in mental health and relationship quality.
What psychological factors facilitate post-traumatic growth and relational strengthening in couples exposed to combat?
In times of trauma, such as war or combat, individuals tend to experience an intense range of emotions including anxiety, fear, anger, grief, and guilt. The coping mechanisms employed by individuals may vary, but many find solace in their close relationships, particularly romantic partnerships. In fact, research suggests that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is less likely to develop when individuals have strong social support networks.