War has always been an integral part of human history, and its effects can be felt both physically and psychologically. One of the lesser-known consequences of war is how it affects the subconscious associations that individuals build between touch, safety, fear, and comfort. These are innate responses to external stimuli, but they can become distorted during wartime due to traumatic experiences such as violence, death, injury, and displacement.
During times of conflict, individuals may develop negative connotations towards physical contact due to past trauma associated with it.
Someone who experienced abuse before their military service might associate physical closeness with feelings of vulnerability, fear, or powerlessness, leading them to avoid close encounters altogether. This can have long-lasting repercussions even after returning home from deployment.
Some individuals may develop positive associations between intimacy and security, seeing close contact as a source of strength and stability. This may manifest in relationships where touch becomes a way to reaffirm trust and bonding, which can lead to healthy sexual and emotional connections within those partnerships.
This association may also carry over into non-intimate situations, creating tension when trying to establish boundaries or engage in casual social interactions.
Prolonged exposure to stress and danger in warfare can cause individuals to experience hypervigilance and increased anxiety, making them more sensitive to perceived threats or dangers. This heightened state of alertness can extend beyond combat zones and interfere with daily life, causing irritability and withdrawal from loved ones.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked to a lack of awareness of one's body, including difficulty recognizing touch and sensation, resulting in a further breakdown of physical connection with others.
War impacts an individual's subconscious in complex ways that go beyond immediate battlefield experiences. The psychological scars of conflict can shape how we view our bodies, relationships, and world for years afterward, affecting our ability to form meaningful bonds and feel safe in the present moment. It is essential to understand these effects so that we can provide adequate support and treatment for veterans and their families who have experienced trauma during wartime.
How does war impact the subconscious associations individuals build between touch, safety, fear, or comfort?
Touch is one of the most important senses for humans because it provides them with vital information about their surroundings and other people's intentions. Touch can convey both positive and negative feelings such as love, warmth, affection, care, and aggression. In situations where individuals are exposed to violence or trauma, they may develop subconscious associations between touch, safety, fear, or comfort based on their experiences.