Military couples face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy and fulfilling romantic relationships while living apart for extended periods. One challenge is that they must find ways to communicate effectively despite being separated by great distances and time differences. Communication between military spouses can be affected by many factors such as deployment, training exercises, and work schedules. This article will explore some of the common patterns of communication that emerge in military couples under prolonged stress.
Common Challenges in Military Couple Communication
The first challenge that military couples face is managing their expectations about how often they should communicate with each other. Some couples may feel pressure to stay connected every day, while others may feel comfortable with less frequent contact.
Finding a balance that works for both partners is important.
Couples need to be aware of the potential for miscommunication due to different time zones or technology difficulties. It's essential for them to set clear boundaries and understand each other's needs when it comes to communication frequency.
Communication Styles
Another pattern that can emerge in military couples is different communication styles.
One partner may prefer to talk on the phone more frequently, while the other prefers text messages. Military life requires flexibility in communication styles, so it's vital for couples to adapt to each other's preferences and make compromises when necessary. Couples may also have different communication styles based on cultural background or language barriers. Understanding these differences can help build empathy and increase understanding.
Intimacy and Sexuality
Maintaining intimacy and sexuality in a long-distance relationship can be difficult, but not impossible. Military couples must find ways to express themselves physically and emotionally without being together in person. This could involve sharing photos, videos, or even writing erotic letters. Some couples may choose to engage in virtual sex or use apps designed for military spouses. Open communication about sexual desires and fantasies is crucial, as well as setting aside time for intimate activities such as cuddling or watching movies together.
Long-Distance Relationship Maintenance
Military couples should also focus on maintaining their relationship by doing things like planning regular visits, sending gifts, and finding shared interests. They should take care of themselves individually through exercise, hobbies, and socialization with friends and family members. Setting goals and making plans for the future can provide motivation during stressful times. It's essential to remember that maintaining a healthy relationship takes effort from both partners, regardless of physical distance.
Common Patterns in Military Communication
Military couples face unique challenges in communication, but there are some common patterns that emerge. The first is managing expectations and clear communication boundaries. Secondly, couples may have different communication styles that they need to adapt to.
Maintaining intimacy and connection requires creativity and openness. By working together, military couples can overcome these challenges and build strong relationships despite distance and separation.
What patterns of communication emerge in military couples under prolonged stress?
Military spouses have been noted to experience increased levels of anxiety, depression, and relationship distress when their partner is away for extended periods due to deployment or training exercises (Rothman & Mintz, 2014). Research has shown that these challenges are exacerbated by the unique demands of military life such as frequent relocations, long work hours, and unpredictable schedules.