Learn more about the importance of relationships during high-intensity deployments(https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-human-beast/201809/how-build-resilience-high-stress-deployment)
Deployments are stressful events that challenge the mental health and well-being of service members.
Many couples manage to maintain their relationship despite these challenges through relational resilience. Relational resilience is the ability of a couple to adapt, adjust, and bounce back from adversities that threaten the relationship. In high-intensity deployments, soldiers face multiple threats to their relationship, including separation, distance, trauma, and uncertainty. Despite these threats, some couples experience continuity and satisfaction in their relationship.
Psychological mechanisms supporting relational resilience
There are several psychological mechanisms that support relational resilience in high-intensity deployments. One mechanism is effective communication. Couples who communicate effectively navigate difficult situations together, which strengthens their bond. They talk openly about their feelings, needs, and concerns, even when they may be distant or under stress. This helps them maintain intimacy and connection. Effective communication involves active listening, empathy, and validation of each other's emotions. It also means being willing to compromise and share responsibility.
Another mechanism is positive cognitions. Positive cognitions refer to thoughts and beliefs about oneself, one's partner, and the relationship.
Someone might think, "My partner is reliable and supportive," or "Our relationship can survive this deployment." These positive thoughts help couples stay optimistic and hopeful, even when things seem bleak. Cognitive therapy techniques such as reframing negative thoughts into more positive ones can also promote positive cognitions.
Self-care is another important mechanism. Taking care of one's own mental health during deployment supports relational resilience. Service members who take time for themselves, practice mindfulness, exercise, and engage in hobbies tend to have better relationships than those who do not. Self-care allows service members to maintain a sense of control over their lives and manage stress levels, which in turn reduces tension and conflict with their partners.
Psychological mechanisms supporting continuity
Continuity refers to the stability and consistency of the relationship despite adversity. To maintain continuity, couples must prioritize their relationship. They make time for each other, communicate regularly, and show affection even when separated by distance. They also keep up with daily routines like sharing meals and going on dates. This helps them feel connected and supported.
Another mechanism that promotes continuity is flexibility. Couples who are flexible adapt to changing circumstances and find ways to remain close. This means being willing to compromise and adjust expectations. Flexible couples may try new activities together, such as online gaming or virtual date nights, to maintain intimacy while apart. They might also change communication styles to accommodate different schedules or environments.
Commitment plays an essential role in maintaining continuity. Couples who are committed to each other stay together through thick and thin, even if it requires sacrifice and effort. Commitment involves making long-term plans and investing in the future of the relationship. It also involves trust and faith that the relationship will weather any storm.
Psychological mechanisms supporting satisfaction
Satisfaction in a relationship is based on positive emotions, connection, and fulfillment. Service members can promote satisfaction during deployment by focusing on gratitude and appreciation. Gratitude for one's partner and the relationship provides a sense of security and contentment. Appreciating small things like shared laughter or a kind gesture can go a long way towards improving feelings of satisfaction.
Another mechanism is self-expansion. Self-expansion refers to the belief that one's partner enhances their life. When service members focus on how they have grown and changed because of their partnership, they experience greater satisfaction. This can involve sharing interests, learning from each other, or taking on new challenges together.
Intimacy promotes satisfaction. Intimate relationships provide comfort, support, and validation. Couples who feel close and connected tend to be more satisfied with their relationship overall. They take time to share personal details, express affection, and offer emotional support. During deployment, this may involve sending letters or sharing pictures to keep the spark alive.
Relational resilience, continuity, and satisfaction are all important outcomes of high-intensity deployments. Psychological mechanisms such as effective communication, positive cognitions, self-care, flexibility, commitment, gratitude, self-expansion, and intimacy play critical roles in promoting these outcomes. By prioritizing their relationship and practicing healthy habits, couples can navigate deployments successfully and emerge stronger than ever before.
What psychological mechanisms support relational resilience, continuity, and satisfaction in high-intensity deployments?
The ability to cope with and overcome adversity is an important quality for military personnel during deployment. Resilience can be supported by various psychological mechanisms such as social connectedness, self-efficacy, and cognitive flexibility. These mechanisms allow individuals to develop adaptability, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain mental health even in challenging situations.