Soldiers face unique challenges when it comes to their relationships with family members back home while deployed for extended periods. These challenges are especially exacerbated during times of combat or intense operational stress.
Despite the many difficulties involved in managing these challenges, there are strategies that can help soldiers better cope with them.
One strategy is to establish clear communication channels with loved ones before deployment so that they know how often you will be able to contact each other and what kind of updates you will be able to provide. This helps set expectations and prevents disappointment later on.
Soldiers should take advantage of any available resources offered by their unit or command to stay connected with family members, such as video calls or social media platforms.
Another important strategy is to prioritize personal time for yourself and your partner/spouse. This means setting aside specific moments every day or week where you focus solely on one another without distractions from work or duty. It also involves being intentional about spending quality time together, engaging in activities like going out to eat or watching movies instead of simply talking about mundane tasks around the house.
Soldiers should make sure they have realistic expectations for themselves and their families regarding communication and support during deployments. It's important not to put pressure on either party to meet unrealistic standards but instead appreciate the effort both parties are making towards maintaining a healthy relationship under difficult circumstances.
Soldiers need to take proactive steps to manage relational strain resulting from differing operational roles or exposure to danger. By establishing clear communication channels, prioritizing personal time, and having realistic expectations, soldiers can maintain strong relationships even while deployed for extended periods of time.
How do soldiers manage relational strain resulting from differing operational roles or exposure to danger?
Research shows that soldiers experience strained relations with their family members, friends, peers, and acquaintances due to their diverging experiences and responsibilities during military operations. These conflicts may arise when some soldiers are involved in combat while others serve as support personnel, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, isolation, or resentment. Additionally, different perceptions of danger and risk among members of the same unit can also create tension between them.