When most people think about the military, they imagine intense combat situations that leave deep scars both physically and psychologically.
There are also many less visible but equally significant challenges that service members face when integrating back into civilian life. One of these challenges is how to maintain healthy romantic relationships after experiencing such high levels of emotional distress during deployment. Soldiers who have been through traumatic events may find it difficult to connect with their loved ones emotionally due to feelings of guilt, anxiety, or depression. This can lead to strained relationships and even divorce if left unaddressed.
Relational learning has shown great potential for helping soldiers overcome this challenge. Relational learning is a process whereby individuals develop new behaviors based on past experiences. In other words, it's the ability to apply what you've learned from one context to another situation.
A soldier might learn to better communicate with his partner by remembering how he used to interact with his squad in combat. By applying these principles to everyday interactions, soldiers can build stronger connections with their partners and avoid misunderstandings.
One study found that soldiers who participated in group therapy sessions focused on relational learning were more likely to report improvements in their relationships than those who did not participate in such sessions. The researchers believe that this was because the participants were able to practice new communication skills in a safe environment before applying them to real-world scenarios. Another study showed that soldiers who had received training in relational learning were more likely to report positive changes in their relationships over time.
While relational learning can be an effective tool for improving intimacy after combat, it requires dedication and hard work. Soldiers need to be willing to reflect on their experiences and identify areas where they need improvement. They also need to put in the effort to try new things and communicate openly with their partners about their struggles. With time and patience, however, soldiers can use relational learning to build healthy and lasting relationships.
How do soldiers integrate relational learning from extreme operational stressors into long-term intimate relationship practices?
Soldiers learn many valuable lessons during their time of service that they can apply to their personal lives after their military career ends. One key area where this is important is in intimate relationships, particularly for those who have experienced trauma or other forms of extreme stress while serving. Relational learning refers to the ways in which individuals develop an understanding of how others think and feel through shared experiences, often creating strong bonds between them.