Service members are often away from their loved ones for extended periods of time due to military deployments, training exercises, or other duties. During these times, they may feel disconnected from their significant others and struggle to maintain healthy relationships.
Research suggests that relational significance can still be achieved despite limited communication opportunities. This study sought to examine how service members interpret relational significance during time constraints and what strategies they use to sustain meaningful interactions.
The participants were recruited through online advertising and interviewed in person or via phone. All were active duty service members who had been deployed within the last year and were currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. The interviews were semi-structured and lasted approximately one hour each. Participants were asked about their experiences with deployments, the challenges they faced in maintaining relationships while away, and the strategies they used to stay connected.
Participants reported feeling lonely and isolated when away from their partners. They described missing out on everyday moments such as sharing meals, going to bed together, and cuddling after a long day. Many felt a sense of emotional distance from their partners, even though they were physically present. To compensate for this lack of physical intimacy, some engaged in more frequent phone calls or video chats. Others sent letters or care packages to express their love and affection. Some even created rituals to mark special occasions or keep up with each other's daily routines.
Despite these efforts, many reported that their relationships suffered during deployment. Participants noted that distance made it difficult to maintain regular connection and communication, leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Some felt that their partner was unsupportive or disinterested in maintaining the relationship. Others experienced jealousy or resentment over missed opportunities for socializing.
While relational significance can be achieved despite limited time and contact, it requires effort and intentionality. Service members may need to redefine what it means to feel close to a partner and work to prioritize meaningful interactions when possible. This could include scheduling regular check-ins or sending tokens of appreciation. It is also important to communicate expectations and boundaries regarding communication frequency and quality.
Relational significance is crucial for service member wellbeing but can be challenging to achieve when time constraints limit meaningful interaction. Service members must be proactive in maintaining healthy relationships despite separation and understand the importance of communicating openly and honestly about needs and desires.
How do service members interpret relational significance when time constraints limit meaningful interaction?
When time is limited, service members may experience difficulties interpreting the level of relational significance they hold with others due to the challenges of establishing deep connections within these interactions. The importance placed on relationships can vary greatly between individuals, making it difficult for them to determine how much effort should be put into developing or maintaining them. Additionally, cultural expectations and norms around communication and connection can influence how service members perceive their place in the social world, which further complicates this process.