The article will explore the importance of external social support networks in maintaining healthy relationships among deployed couples. Deployment can be challenging for many reasons, including distance, time apart, and stress from work demands.
Studies have shown that a strong support network can help to mitigate these difficulties and promote relationship stability. This article will focus on how external social support networks can contribute to sustaining intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction for deployed couples through the lens of psychological research.
External social support networks are critical to a couple's well-being during deployment because they provide emotional and practical assistance when partners are apart. In one study, married military spouses who had high levels of social support reported higher levels of marital satisfaction than those without such support. Social support can take various forms, such as family members, friends, colleagues, or online communities. These individuals offer emotional comfort, advice, and practical help, which can improve communication between partners.
One way that social support networks sustain intimacy is by providing an outlet for affection and connection. Partners may feel disconnected and isolated due to separation, but having close friends and family nearby allows them to share their feelings and receive support. They can also express affection and appreciation towards each other by communicating through social media or phone calls, even if they cannot physically be together.
Seeing photos or videos of each other can strengthen the bond and reduce anxiety about being separated.
Trust is another important aspect of a healthy relationship, and social support networks play a vital role in maintaining it. Spouses with strong social support systems report greater trust in their partner and less suspicion about infidelity. Friends and family members can act as confidants and provide reassurance when doubts arise, helping partners work through issues together.
Having a reliable network provides additional sources of information and resources that can validate partners' perceptions.
External social support networks contribute to relational satisfaction by reducing stress and increasing resilience. Deployment can cause significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and anger.
Studies show that people with robust social networks tend to have lower levels of these negative emotions. Social support helps couples cope with deployment-related challenges more effectively, enabling them to focus on positive aspects of their relationship.
External social support networks are essential for deployed couples seeking to maintain intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction during difficult times.
What role do external social support networks play in sustaining intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction for deployed couples?
Research has shown that deployments can have a significant impact on relationships, particularly when it comes to intimacy, trust, and relational satisfaction. One factor that may help mitigate these effects is the presence of strong external social support networks. External social support networks refer to individuals outside of the couple's immediate relationship who provide emotional, practical, and logistical support during difficult times. These networks include family members, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and other community members.