What is resilience and how does it apply to LGBT couples?
Resilience refers to the ability of individuals to adapt to stressful situations and overcome adversity. It involves developing strategies for coping with difficult circumstances and maintaining positive mental health despite challenges. In the context of military deployment, resilience can be especially important for members of the LGBT community who may face discrimination, stigma, and rejection due to their identity.
Some research suggests that same-sex couples may also experience unique challenges during deployments that require additional skills for managing stress and preserving relationships.
The study of psychology has revealed several mechanisms that contribute to resilience in LGBT individuals, including cognitive flexibility, social support networks, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. These factors are particularly relevant when facing high-risk deployments because they help individuals navigate difficult situations while remaining emotionally stable and connected to loved ones.
Cognitive flexibility involves thinking creatively about problems and adapting to changing circumstances.
If one partner is deployed to a dangerous region, they may need to adjust their expectations for communication and keep an open mind about alternative ways of staying in touch. Social support networks provide a sense of belonging and validation from others who understand and accept them as they are. Emotional regulation involves managing strong feelings like fear or sadness without becoming overwhelmed by them. This skill is critical for maintaining mental health during long periods away from home.
Self-esteem involves having confidence in one's abilities and recognizing personal strengths even in challenging environments. By cultivating these traits, LGBT individuals can build resilience and better cope with the challenges of deployment.
The role of sexuality and gender in building resilience
Sexuality and gender play a crucial role in shaping how LGBT couples approach resilience during military deployments. Some research suggests that same-sex couples may face additional stressors related to being outed or disclosing their identities in hostile environments.
Other studies indicate that closeness and intimacy between partners can be protective against psychological distress during deployments. In some cases, LGBT couples may also benefit from community resources or cultural events designed specifically for queer populations.
In terms of psychological mechanisms, sexuality and gender may influence cognitive flexibility, social support, emotional regulation, and self-esteem.
Gay men may have higher levels of cognitive flexibility because they have had to adapt to societal norms that deny or stigmatize their identity. Lesbian women may have stronger social support networks due to greater visibility within the LGBT community. Transgender individuals may require more emotional regulation skills to manage societal prejudice and discrimination. And bisexual people may struggle with lower self-esteem due to conflicting expectations about who they are attracted to.
How do different types of deployment affect resilience?
Different types of deployments pose unique challenges for LGBT couples that impact their resilience. Deployments lasting longer than six months tend to be associated with increased psychological distress, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Deployments involving combat exposure can lead to trauma symptoms like PTSD.
Deployments that involve isolation or separation from one's partner may be particularly stressful for same-sex couples, who may not have access to local support systems.
Research suggests that LGBT couples who prioritize open communication, shared goals, and mutual understanding can maintain strong relationships even during high-risk deployments. By acknowledging their fears and vulnerabilities and working together to overcome them, couples can cultivate resilience and preserve intimacy despite distance and uncertainty. This involves recognizing individual needs while also being mindful of each other's experiences and perspectives.
What psychological mechanisms underpin resilience in LGBT couples facing high-risk deployments?
Resilience is defined as "the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties. " In LGBTQ+ relationships, resilience can be especially crucial during times of separation due to military deployment, which often comes with its fair share of challenges for both partners. Psychologically, resilience can be attributed to various factors such as positive self-esteem, adaptability, empathy, and optimism.