Soldiers must deal with many challenges when it comes to balancing autonomy and emotional dependency. On one hand, they need to be independent, self-reliant, and capable of making decisions without relying on others for support.
They also have to maintain strong emotional connections with their families and friends back home to stay motivated and connected to their humanity. This can create tension between these two conflicting needs.
One way that soldiers attempt to balance autonomy and emotional dependency is through communication technology. Soldiers can keep in touch with loved ones through emails, texts, phone calls, and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This allows them to stay connected while still maintaining some degree of independence. It's important for soldiers to set boundaries around how much time they spend communicating with loved ones so that they don't lose focus on the mission at hand.
Another approach to balancing autonomy and emotional dependency is through physical activity. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood, which can help soldiers maintain mental health and resilience during deployments. Exercise also provides an opportunity for solitude and reflection, which can help soldiers maintain a sense of control over their lives even in difficult situations.
Soldiers may also turn to hobbies or other activities outside of work to provide some respite from the demands of their job. Hobbies can range from reading books, writing letters, playing video games, or engaging in sports. These activities allow soldiers to relax and unwind, providing a break from the constant pressure of being on duty.
Soldiers often rely on their fellow troops for emotional support. Building strong bonds with comrades-in-arms can provide a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that helps soldiers feel less alone and more supported.
It's important for soldiers to be careful not to become too dependent on their teammates and to maintain healthy relationships back home as well.
Soldiers must balance autonomy with emotional dependency by utilizing communication technology, engaging in physical activity, finding hobbies outside of work, and building strong relationships with both their unit and family members. By doing so, they can stay connected to what matters most while still remaining focused on completing their mission.
How do soldiers balance autonomy with emotional dependency?
Soldiers experience an internal conflict between the need for independence and dependence on their peers during military service. On one hand, they must be autonomous, self-sufficient individuals who can make decisions independently, adapt quickly to changing situations, and take responsibility for themselves and their actions. On the other hand, they must rely on their fellow soldiers for support, camaraderie, and mutual protection.