When a member of a military family deploys, it can have both positive and negative effects on their relationship with other members of their family. On one hand, deployments often strengthen bonds between spouses and children because they learn to rely more heavily on each other for emotional support.
Deployments also bring about changes in family dynamics that can make maintaining close ties difficult, especially if the deployed person is away for an extended period.
Couples may become less intimate due to distance, and children may feel disconnected from their parent who is serving abroad. This can lead to feelings of resentment and mistrust that can persist even after the deployment ends. In this essay, I will discuss how shifting family roles impact closeness and trust after deployment and provide strategies for building stronger relationships during separation.
One way that deployments affect family dynamics is through role changes within the household. The absent parent must assume new responsibilities while away, such as managing finances, caring for pets or property, or handling chores. Meanwhile, other family members may take on additional duties related to childcare or housework. These adjustments can be challenging, particularly if there are already existing divisions of labor in place before the deployment.
Mothers may struggle to balance work and family life when suddenly expected to be both sole provider and primary caregiver. Similarly, fathers may experience frustration over not being able to fulfill their usual role as breadwinner. As a result, family members may grow distant from each other, leading to decreased closeness and trust.
Another factor that contributes to these changes is communication. Military families frequently use email, video calls, and social media platforms to stay connected, but the quality of these interactions can vary significantly depending on technology accessibility and availability.
Military spouses often have limited control over scheduling conversations with their partners, making it difficult to maintain routine check-ins.
This lack of consistent contact can make it harder for couples to maintain intimacy, which can further strain their relationship. Children may also feel disconnected from their parent due to inconsistent access to them via video chat, causing tension between siblings or parents.
Despite these potential drawbacks, there are several ways that families can build closer connections after a deployment ends. First, establish clear expectations about roles and responsibilities within the household upon reintegration. This means discussing who will handle certain tasks and how they will be managed so that everyone feels supported and included. It is also important to prioritize regular face-to-face interaction, such as weekly dinners or game nights, to help strengthen bonds between family members. Making time for shared activities like hobbies, exercising together, or simply talking about each other's day can help build trust and mutual understanding.
Practice patience and empathy during the transition period, recognizing that both parties are adjusting to new circumstances and may need more support than usual during this time.
Shifting family dynamics can create challenges for military families, particularly in terms of closeness and trust between couples and children.
By focusing on open communication and planning for change beforehand, families can work through these obstacles and emerge stronger than ever. With proper effort and attention, military deployments do not have to cause lasting harm to relationships but rather provide an opportunity for growth and connection.
How do shifting family roles impact closeness and trust after deployment?
Shifting family roles can have a significant impact on closeness and trust within families following military deployment. Families may experience changes in dynamics and responsibilities that affect their interactions with one another, which can lead to feelings of disconnection, anxiety, and even resentment. The transition back home can be challenging as individuals adjust to new routines, schedules, and expectations.