The term "anticipatory grief" refers to the feelings of loss experienced before a loved one's death. The military is an institution that values sacrifice, courage, and selflessness. Deployment involves being away from home for extended periods, often in dangerous situations. This can lead to anxiety about the safety of loved ones left behind. It also creates uncertainty regarding future family dynamics, financial stability, and emotional wellbeing. Deployees may feel guilty about leaving their families behind or worry about being unable to protect them while away. These factors contribute to anticipation of deployment altering attachment behaviors and emotional expression.
Prior to deployment, deployees typically experience increased levels of separation anxiety and loneliness. They may become more dependent on their partners, engage in more frequent calls or visits, and attempt to reassure themselves through physical closeness or intimate gestures. Some couples report greater sexual activity prior to deployment as a way of expressing love and connection.
This does not always result in deeper emotional bonds or stronger attachments during deployment. In fact, some research suggests that these actions may actually undermine trust and commitment if they are perceived as manipulative or controlling.
During deployment, communication becomes more challenging due to distance and limited contact. This leads to less emotional sharing and less opportunity to build intimacy.
Soldiers may withdraw emotionally or socially as a coping mechanism. This can further exacerbate attachment issues and cause resentment towards their partner upon return.
Returning servicemembers may struggle with readjustment and reintegration into civilian life. Their experiences abroad can create cognitive dissonance between military and civilian cultures, leading to feelings of alienation from both worlds. All of these factors combine to make post-deployment adjustment difficult for many families.
Anticipatory grief has numerous effects on attachment behavior and emotional expression. Deployees often become more clingy and anxious prior to departure, seeking comfort through physical closeness or sex. During deployment, they may withdraw emotionally, creating additional strain on the relationship. Upon return, they may experience difficulties readjusting to civilian life, leading to increased stress and anxiety for everyone involved. These factors can all contribute to long-term struggles with intimacy and trust, making it crucial for deployers to work closely with their partners before, during, and after deployment.
In what ways does anticipation of deployment alter attachment behaviors and emotional expression?
Deployment is a significant event for both service members and their loved ones as it involves separation from each other for an extended period. The anticipation of deployment can have various impacts on attachment behaviors and emotional expression among family members. It may lead to increased anxiety and stress levels, which could affect the overall well-being of the family members. Additionally, deployments often involve changes in communication patterns, which may further affect relationships between family members.