In warfare, soldiers undergo traumatic experiences that trigger hyperarousal or hypoarousal states. Hyperarousal is characterized by increased vigilance and alertness to threats, while hypoarousal is marked by drowsiness and lack of awareness. These conditions affect emotional expression and can make it difficult for soldiers to communicate effectively with their partners. Here are some ways soldiers manage relational communication when habituated hyperarousal or hypoarousal alters typical emotional expression:
1. Soldiers may display a range of emotions that are abnormal for them, such as anger, sadness, fear, or anxiety. They may also suppress normal emotions, making it harder to connect with loved ones. To overcome this challenge, soldiers must recognize their emotions and express them openly without judgement from their partners. This can help create a safe space where they can share their thoughts and feelings.
2. Habitual arousal or hypoarousal changes how soldiers interpret facial expressions and body language.
A soldier who is constantly hyperaroused might misread facial cues as signs of hostility, which could lead to misunderstandings with their partner. They should be mindful of these reactions and take time to understand their partner's intentions before responding.
3. Soldiers often have difficulty processing verbal messages due to habitual arousal. They may struggle to follow conversations, miss important details, or misinterpret what their partner says. To compensate, they should pay close attention to non-verbal cues like tone of voice, gesture, and body posture.
4. Hyperarousal can cause restlessness and agitation, while hypoarousal can lead to lethargy and withdrawal. These states make it difficult to stay engaged in conversation and may lead to disconnection from their partner. To counteract this, soldiers should practice relaxation techniques and self-soothing strategies when possible.
5. When soldiers return home from deployment, they may experience difficulty readjusting to civilian life and family relationships. They may become irritable or detached, leading to conflict and strain on their relationships. Understanding the effects of trauma on relational communication can help both partners recognize and address potential issues.
Soldiers must learn to manage emotional expression when habituated hyperarousal or hypoarousal affects typical emotional response. By recognizing their feelings, practicing non-verbal communication, and being aware of their reactions, soldiers can maintain healthy relationships despite challenges posed by warfare.
How do soldiers manage relational communication when habituated hyperarousal or hypoarousal alters typical emotional expression?
Prior studies on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have shown that individuals with PTSD often experience a wide range of physical, mental, and social changes including impaired emotion regulation as well as negative alterations of interpersonal relationship skills (Bradley et al. , 2015).