Conflict is an inevitable part of human relationships, but it can be especially difficult to manage when one partner is deployed for extended periods of time. Deployment-induced relational conflicts can cause significant stress and strain on a relationship, making it more challenging to communicate effectively, resolve disagreements, and maintain emotional connection.
There are several strategies that couples can use to facilitate emotional repair, reconciliation, and reconnection after deployment-induced relational conflicts.
One strategy is to establish clear communication channels before deployment begins. This means setting expectations for how often and how each partner will stay in touch during deployment, as well as creating a schedule for video calls or phone calls. It's also important to discuss how emotions may change during deployment and agree on ways to express them healthily without causing additional conflict.
Another strategy is to prioritize empathy and understanding. When partners return home from deployment, they may have changed in ways that their partner wasn't expecting or didn't fully understand. They may feel distant or disconnected, and it's essential to listen actively, validate their feelings, and show support. Reassuring statements like "I know you've been through a lot" or "Thank you for your service" can go a long way in rebuilding trust and intimacy.
It's also crucial to make time for quality time together. Spending time alone with your partner, going out on dates, or engaging in activities you both enjoy can help repair the emotional connection that was damaged by deployment. Avoid dwelling on negative experiences or bringing up past arguments; instead, focus on positives and look forward to the future.
Seeking professional help if necessary can be beneficial. Relationship counseling or therapy can provide an objective perspective and tools for addressing underlying issues contributing to the conflict. If one partner struggles with depression or PTSD, seeking mental health treatment can improve their overall well-being and help strengthen the relationship.
By implementing these strategies, couples can work towards resolving relational conflicts after deployment and reconnect emotionally, leading to a stronger, more resilient relationship.
What strategies facilitate emotional repair, reconciliation, and reconnection after deployment-induced relational conflicts?
During and following military deployments, many service members experience relationship stress due to prolonged separation from their loved ones. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, anger, resentment, and fear. The process of reintegration back into civilian life may exacerbate these difficulties by creating new challenges for both the service member and their partner.