The term "intermittent" refers to something that happens occasionally but not regularly.
If you go out to eat at a restaurant once a week but never order dessert, your experience may be considered intermittent. In terms of care and intimacy gestures between service members, intermittence can occur for various reasons such as time constraints, distance, duty assignments, or cultural differences. When these gestures are absent for extended periods, it can lead to dissatisfaction among partners. This essay explores how service members evaluate their satisfaction levels during these times of absence and the strategies they employ to maintain connection.
There are several ways in which service members express their emotions towards one another while apart. Some couples may exchange letters, emails, text messages, phone calls, or video chats. Others may utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, or Snapchat.
Some military bases have programs wherein families can visit each other virtually using webcams.
All of these forms of communication must be planned and scheduled well in advance due to strict regulations.
In spite of technological advancements, there are still challenges with mediated interactions between couples. One common issue is the lack of physical contact and touching. Many people require physical affection to feel emotionally connected, so when they cannot hug or hold hands with their partner, it can cause distress. The solution is often to plan special occasions like surprise visits or birthdays in person.
When care and intimacy gestures are absent, it is essential to find alternate ways to connect.
Sharing daily activities like cooking, cleaning, or exercising together can create a sense of closeness. Service members can also send pictures or videos of themselves engaging in everyday tasks to show their loved ones what they do throughout the day.
Another factor that affects satisfaction is the level of commitment to the relationship. If both parties prioritize their partnership despite being apart, it helps them cope with intermittent care and intimacy.
If one party begins to question the future of the relationship or becomes involved with another person, it can lead to feelings of disconnection. In this case, couples counseling may be necessary to rebuild trust and resolve conflict.
Service members evaluate their satisfaction levels by considering how much effort they put into maintaining the relationship during times of absence. Those who invest time and energy into connecting through virtual means tend to have higher levels of satisfaction than those who don't. It's crucial for service members to communicate openly about their needs and expectations so that they can work together towards mutual understanding and appreciation.
How do service members evaluate satisfaction when care and intimacy gestures are intermittent or mediated?
In general, people may be dissatisfied with inconsistent or mediated expressions of care and intimacy from their partners or other individuals they interact with due to various reasons. Firstly, it could lead to feelings of uncertainty and unpredictability, which can make it difficult to develop trust and establish strong relationships.