Resilience is an essential factor for mental health and well-being, especially for individuals who are exposed to stressors such as military deployment. Research has shown that many factors contribute to this quality, including social support systems, coping strategies, and personality traits.
There have been fewer studies on how these factors apply specifically to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) couples undergoing repeated high-risk deployments. This article explores psychological mechanisms fostering resilience in LGBT couples facing repeated high-risk deployments.
The study found that the most important factor contributing to resilience was the couple's ability to maintain open communication about their feelings and concerns during periods of separation. This allowed them to stay connected emotionally despite being physically apart, which helped mitigate anxiety and depression.
They reported using positive self-talk to cope with challenges and maintain hopefulness about reuniting. The study also noted that having strong relationships outside of their marriage, such as friends or family members who provided emotional support, contributed to resilience.
Other studies have found that LGBT couples face unique challenges due to discrimination and stigma in both civilian and military life. As a result, they may be more prone to experiencing isolation, loneliness, and other negative emotions that can undermine resilience.
The study participants demonstrated various ways of combating these effects, such as seeking out supportive communities within the military and finding acceptance from fellow service members. They also emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for themselves where they could express their identities freely without fear of judgment.
The study highlighted the need for further research into the specific challenges faced by LGBT couples in military deployment situations. It also underscored the vital role that social support systems play in promoting resilience among this group. By understanding how psychological mechanisms foster resilience in LGBT couples facing repeated high-risk deployments, we can better support them during their time of need and promote overall mental health and well-being.
What psychological mechanisms foster resilience in LGBT couples facing repeated high-risk deployments?
Psychological research suggests that individuals who are able to draw on their personal strengths and resources during times of crisis tend to be more resilient. This is known as the stress buffering hypothesis, which states that people with greater access to social support, positive self-esteem, optimism, and self-efficacy tend to experience less negative effects from adversity (Cohen et al. , 2018).