Intimacy is defined as a close connection between people in an emotional relationship or friendship. It can be physical, mental, spiritual, or a combination of all three. When an individual goes away for military service, they may find themselves missing their partner or spouse physically and emotionally, which can lead to changes in their identity that affect the way they view themselves and others around them. Deployment can bring about feelings of loneliness, fear, guilt, anxiety, anger, and sadness. The absence of one's partner can make it difficult to maintain the same level of intimacy and closeness as before deployment. These feelings can also manifest in dreams, thoughts, and memories. How individuals reconstruct relational identity when habitual intimacy patterns are disrupted by deployment depends on various factors such as age, gender, personality type, past experiences, culture, religion, belief system, and more.
There are several ways to reconstruct relational identity during deployment and afterward. One method is to focus on self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, yoga, journaling, or therapy to process and work through the emotions associated with separation from one's loved ones. Another approach is to connect with family members or friends who provide support, understanding, and encouragement. For some, joining support groups for deployed families may be helpful. Some couples choose to communicate via video calls, letters, emails, or phone conversations daily while apart to stay connected. Individuals might also spend time alone without distractions to reflect on the situation and reevaluate their values, goals, and priorities. With time and effort, individuals can learn new habits that help them cope with these changes better.
The impact of military service on relationships has been studied extensively but there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution since each individual will respond differently based on personal circumstances. It is important to remember that everyone needs different types of support during this challenging time, whether they need physical affection, companionship, emotional validation, or something else entirely. Understanding how to navigate these changes takes patience and open communication between partners. This article has presented some possible strategies for rebuilding relational identity during deployment which can aid in managing stress levels related to intimacy disruption due to absence from a romantic partner or spouse for an extended period.
How do individuals reconstruct relational identity when habitual intimacy patterns are disrupted by deployment?
The reconstruction of relational identity is an individualized process that can be influenced by various factors such as one's personal experiences, cultural beliefs, social norms, and coping mechanisms. When habitual intimacy patterns are disrupted due to military deployment, individuals may experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, confusion, and grief, which can impact their sense of self and relationships with others.