The Effects of Repeated Separations on Service Members' Understanding of Stability and Long-Term Commitment
Service members face repeated separations from their loved ones during military deployment. These separations can have profound effects on their understanding of stability and the emotional foundations of long-term commitment. In this article, we will explore how these separations impact service members' perceptions of security and commitment, and what steps they may take to cope with them.
Repeated Separation's Impact on Stability
When service members are repeatedly separated from their partners, it can disrupt the sense of stability and predictability that is essential for healthy relationships. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, as well as difficulty trusting that the relationship will last.
If a couple experiences frequent deployments, it can be challenging to plan future events or make decisions together without worrying about another separation. The lack of consistency and reliability in the relationship can cause confusion and uncertainty, which can undermine commitment.
Repeated separations can strain communication and intimacy between partners. When one person is away, the other may feel isolated and lonely, leading to increased stress and conflict when they reunite. This can create an environment where it becomes difficult to connect emotionally and physically, weakening the foundation of the relationship.
The absence of physical contact can lead to a decrease in sexual satisfaction, further damaging the bond between partners.
Coping Strategies for Repeated Separations
To cope with the effects of repeated separations, service members can implement various strategies. One approach is to establish clear boundaries and expectations before deployment, such as setting limits on communication frequency or planning special activities during reunion. Another strategy is to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals who understand military life. Service members can also prioritize self-care practices like exercise, meditation, or hobbies to reduce stress and anxiety.
Couples can engage in pre-deployment training to prepare for separation and develop skills for effective communication and problem-solving during periods of separation.
Repeated separations can significantly impact service members' perceptions of stability and emotional foundations of long-term commitment. To manage these challenges effectively, individuals must take active steps to maintain their relationships and personal well-being throughout deployments. By implementing coping mechanisms, seeking support, and developing healthy communication habits, service members can navigate the unique challenges of military life and build resilience in their relationships.
How do repeated separations affect service members' understanding of stability and the emotional foundations of long-term commitment?
Repeated separations have been found to have a significant effect on service members' perceptions of stability and the emotional foundations of long-term commitments (Crane & Cannon, 2014). Research has shown that repeated deployments can lead to feelings of instability, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military personnel (Saxe et al.