Relational continuity is an essential aspect of any relationship that involves two people coming together to share their lives and emotions. Partners who have been through a deployment experience may find it challenging to reconnect with their spouses due to the sudden changes in behavior, values, and priorities. This article will examine how partners can maintain relational continuity despite these shifts.
Partners must recognize that deployments bring about significant changes in their partner's life. They need to understand that their partners are going through a difficult time, and they should be patient with them during this period. It would help if you were supportive and understanding without being judgmental. By doing so, you create an environment where your partner feels comfortable sharing his/her feelings and experiences from the deployment.
Communication is critical in maintaining relational continuity when soldiers' behaviors, values, and priorities change post-deployment. Both partners should communicate openly and honestly about what they are feeling and thinking. This way, both parties know each other better and avoid misunderstandings or hurt feelings. Communication also helps build trust between the couple, which is crucial for a healthy relationship.
Partners need to make an effort to spend quality time together. Spending quality time together does not mean having to go out for expensive dates but rather engaging in activities that both enjoy. You could watch movies, play board games, cook dinner, or simply take walks around the neighborhood. These activities help bond partners and remind them why they fell in love in the first place.
It is essential for partners to keep the romance alive. Remember that the spark that brought you two together was there before the deployment, and it still exists. Take time to express your affection and appreciation for your partner. Send love notes, give them a hug or kiss every day, and surprise them with random acts of kindness. Keep the intimacy and passion alive by trying new things in the bedroom.
Relational continuity can be maintained even after deployments by recognizing changes in behavior, values, and priorities. Partners must be supportive, patient, communicative, and spend quality time together while keeping the romance alive. By doing so, couples can overcome the challenges posed by deployments and maintain a strong and healthy relationship.
How do partners maintain relational continuity when soldiers' behaviors, values, and priorities shift post-deployment?
After their return from deployment, most veterans find it difficult to adjust to civilian life, as they have been exposed to unique experiences that shape them in unforeseen ways (Baum et al. , 2019). Their time spent abroad may have caused them to witness death, trauma, and combat violence.