Soldiers who experience life-threatening events may have different ways of coping with stress and trauma. One way they may deal with these experiences is through forming strong attachments to others, both romantically and platonically.
Research shows that the nature of their attachments can be influenced by their exposure to danger. In this article, we will explore how soldiers' priorities for romantic and platonic attachments are affected by their exposure to life-threatening events.
One study found that soldiers who had experienced combat were more likely to form close bonds with their fellow soldiers than those who had not. This suggests that being exposed to life-threatening situations may increase the importance of platonic relationships in soldiers' lives. These soldiers may view their comrades as crucial supports during difficult times and rely on them for emotional and physical assistance.
Soldiers who have experienced combat may feel a sense of loyalty to their fellow soldiers due to shared experiences and the need to protect one another.
Soldiers who have been involved in intimate relationships before or after deployment may prioritize romantic attachments. These individuals may seek out partners who provide comfort and support during challenging times. They may also place greater value on their romantic relationship because it offers them an escape from the reality of war and provides them with a sense of normalcy.
Soldiers who have experienced severe trauma may struggle to form meaningful connections with anyone, regardless of whether they are romantic or platonic. They may feel emotionally distant and disconnected from others, making it difficult to develop deep and lasting bonds. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, even if they are surrounded by people who care about them.
Soldiers' priorities for romantic versus platonic attachments are influenced by their exposure to life-threatening events. Those who have experienced combat may prioritize platonic relationships, while those who have not may focus on romantic ones.
All soldiers must navigate complex emotions and adjust to new realities following military service, which can affect their attachment styles.
How does exposure to life-threatening events influence soldiers' prioritization of romantic versus platonic attachment bonds?
Exposure to life-threatening events can have different effects on soldiers' prioritization of romantic versus platonic attachment bonds depending on their experience during combat. According to research, soldiers who experienced combat violence were more likely to form stronger romantic attachments compared to those who did not (e. g. , Widom et al. , 2016).