Research shows that operational separations can be stressful for military couples. These include deployments, field exercises, training sessions, and travel for work. Studies have found that these separations are associated with negative outcomes such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and relationship dissatisfaction.
Some individuals remain satisfied despite multiple separations. This paper will explore what factors predict resilience and relational satisfaction in couples experiencing repeated operational separation.
One factor is pre-deployment communication. Military couples who regularly communicate before deployment may experience less conflict during separation and more positive emotions after reunion.
One study found that frequent phone calls reduced tension and increased attachment security between spouses. Another study showed that daily email exchanges improved relationship quality during deployment. Pre-deployment communication helps couples to maintain emotional bonds and share their concerns about the upcoming separation.
Another factor is support from family and friends. Military partners who receive social support from loved ones may feel less lonely and anxious during separation. They may also report higher levels of intimacy and commitment upon reunion. One study found that frequent contact with parents helped spouses cope with deployment-related stress. Similarly, another study reported that extended family members provided practical assistance and emotional support. Support from family members can help alleviate loneliness, reduce stress, and increase feelings of safety and comfort.
A third factor is shared meaning-making. Couples who share a common understanding of the military mission and its impact on their lives may be more resilient. Shared meaning-making involves discussing the challenges and sacrifices of military service, expressing gratitude for each other's contributions, and finding purpose in adversity. Studies have shown that shared meaning-making reduces stress, improves communication, and enhances couple identity.
One study found that couples who discussed how deployments impacted their lives experienced greater relational satisfaction.
Coping styles may influence resilience and relational satisfaction. Some individuals adopt active strategies such as problem-solving or distraction while others engage in passive coping like avoidance. Active copers tend to experience lower levels of depression and anxiety than passive copers. One study showed that positive coping increased relationship quality after deployment. Another study found that optimism was associated with higher relationship satisfaction. Coping styles are not fixed, and couples can learn new skills to manage stress and build resilience.
Pre-deployment communication, social support, shared meaning-making, and active coping are factors predicting resilience and relational satisfaction in couples experiencing repeated operational separation. Military partners who invest time in these areas may maintain strong relationships despite frequent separations. Research should continue exploring these variables and identifying additional factors that promote resilience and relational satisfaction during separation.
What factors predict resilience and relational satisfaction in couples experiencing repeated operational separation?
Researchers have identified several factors that can predict resilience and relational satisfaction in couples who experience repeated operational separations. The first factor is communication skills, which can be improved through openness, honesty, active listening, and effective problem-solving techniques. These skills help partners better understand each other's needs, expectations, and feelings during periods of separation.