The impact of warfare-related stress on sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and sexual expression among veterans is a growing concern for researchers and mental health professionals. Traumatic events such as combat can have lasting effects on individuals' psychological well-being and interpersonal relationships. While studies have explored the link between military service and negative outcomes such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and substance abuse, less attention has been given to how these experiences may influence sexual functioning. This article aims to shed light on this understudied area by providing an in-depth analysis of trauma exposure and its relationship to sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and sexual expression among veterans.
Sexual Desire
Trauma exposure can lead to changes in sexual desire, which are often manifested through decreased interest, arousal, or pleasure during intimacy. The National Center for PTSD reports that PTSD symptoms, including hyperarousal, avoidance, and numbing, may negatively impact sexual motivation and response (National Center for PTSD, 2019).
Some veterans may experience guilt, shame, or fear related to their deployment experiences, leading them to suppress their sexual desires or engage in risky behaviors such as infidelity (Shapiro et al., 2015). These factors can create barriers to achieving sexual satisfaction and connection with partners, further exacerbating the impacts of trauma on intimate relationships.
Relational Satisfaction
Exposure to warfare-related trauma can also affect relational satisfaction, with many veterans reporting difficulty communicating effectively with partners about sex and other issues related to intimacy (Langhinrichsen & Kahane, 2013). This challenge stems from various factors, including emotional distancing, dissociation, and feelings of betrayal or abandonment (Schnurr et al., 2014). In addition, military culture often promotes hypermasculinity and the suppression of vulnerability, making it challenging for men to express themselves openly and authentically in romantic relationships (Fisher, 2008). As a result, veterans may struggle to build trust, share vulnerabilities, and meet each other's needs within their partnerships.
Sexual Expression
Trauma exposure may influence sexual expression among veterans, manifesting through difficulties with arousal, pleasure, orgasm, and ejaculation (Obermeyer et al., 2017). While sexual dysfunctions are common among civilians, they are particularly concerning for those who have experienced combat-related trauma because they may be indicative of underlying psychological problems (Bradley et al., 2015).
Some veterans may engage in sex as a way to cope with PTSD symptoms rather than experiencing genuine pleasure or connection (Rothbaum & Lang, 2009). Others may feel detached from their bodies or unable to experience physical sensations fully during intimate encounters (Kashy & Deckner, 2016). These issues can significantly impact veterans' overall well-being, affecting their self-esteem, self-worth, and quality of life (Clements et al., 2017).
Trauma exposure has far-reaching effects on sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and sexual expression among veterans. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for providing effective treatment interventions that address the unique challenges faced by military service members. Mental health professionals should work closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that foster communication, trust, intimacy, and emotional healing within romantic relationships.
Researchers must continue exploring the complex interactions between trauma, sexual functioning, and mental health outcomes to improve our understanding of this critical issue.
How does trauma exposure influence sexual desire, relational satisfaction, and sexual expression post-deployment?
Traumatic events have long been known to affect one's physical health and mental state of mind for some time after the event has occurred. As a result, it is only natural that such experiences could impact an individual's sex life as well. Studies show that there may be a negative correlation between trauma exposure and sexual functioning among military personnel who experience deployment (Barnes et al. , 2017).