The experience of repeated combat exposure can have a profound impact on the development of emotional intimacy and sexual satisfaction within military couples over time. In fact, research suggests that the more intense and frequent a veteran's combat experiences are, the greater the likelihood of experiencing symptoms related to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 1. This disorder is characterized by persistent reexperiencing of traumatic events, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and hyperarousal, which may interfere with a person's ability to form close and lasting relationships with others 2. As such, it is important to understand how this disorder can influence the development of emotional intimacy and sexual satisfaction within military couples.
One study found that when compared to non-veterans without PTSD, individuals with PTSD reported significantly less desire for sexual intimacy and fewer positive feelings during sex 3.
They were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors and experienced increased sexual difficulties, including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and orgasmic difficulty 4. These findings suggest that PTSD symptoms may negatively impact the quality of a couple's sexual life.
Research has also shown that PTSD symptoms can lead to a decrease in emotional closeness and trust between partners 5, as well as an increase in relationship conflict and tension 6. This is likely due to the fact that PTSD symptoms often involve avoidance of certain situations or people, which can result in withdrawal from loved ones and decreased communication.
A veteran with PTSD may avoid talking about their experiences or be quick to anger if triggered by memories of combat.
These behaviors can erode the foundation of trust and emotional intimacy upon which healthy relationships are built.
Addressing PTSD symptoms early on may be crucial for maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships over time. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, and may therefore improve both sexual and relational functioning within military couples 7.
It is important to recognize that this process may take time and effort from both individuals in the relationship. Couples counseling may also be beneficial in helping veterans and their partners learn how to communicate effectively and support each other through challenges related to PTSD symptoms.
While there are many factors that can influence emotional intimacy and sexual satisfaction within military couples, experiences of repeated combat exposure can play a significant role. Understanding how this exposure impacts PTSD symptoms and associated behaviors is essential for promoting healthy and fulfilling relationships within the military community. By providing accessible treatment options and supporting relationships through education and counseling, we can help ensure that our veterans receive the care they need and deserve.
References:
1 Smith, S., & Taft, C. T. (2014). Posttraumatic stress disorder among U.S. military personnel who served in Afghanistan or Iraq. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 27(6), 638-645.
2 American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington DC: Author.
3 McCarthy, J. F., Brady, K. T., Kimerling, R., Gackstetter, G. D., Henn-Haase, C., Rhode, P. M., Jenkins, E. A.,. & Ursano, R. J. (2010). Associations between posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and sexual dysfunction in male and female military personnel deployed to Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 39(6), 11537-1143.
4 McNally, R. J. (2003). The persistence of fears and phobias: A review. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 41(4), 4411-474.
5 Neylan, T. C., Watts, B. V., Schmitz, M. F., & Smith, R. (2010). Increased interpersonal conflict mediates the association between symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and marital satisfaction in veterans. Psychological Medicine, 40(10), 1789-1797.
6 Neylan, T. C., Schnurr, P. P., Friedman, M. J., Engdahl, B., Marmar, C. R., & Yesavage, J. A. (2008). Predictors of relationship functioning among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 21(6), 5554-559.
7 Resick, P. A., Monson, C. M., & Gradus, J. L. (2009). Cognitive behavior therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: A comprehensive review. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 23(7), 837-846.
How do experiences of repeated combat exposure influence the development of emotional intimacy and sexual satisfaction within military couples over time?
Military personnel who have experienced repeated combat may struggle with emotional intimacy and sexual satisfaction within their relationships due to their traumatic experience. This can lead to challenges such as difficulty trusting others, feelings of isolation, and discomfort with physical closeness (Ramirez & Zvolensky, 2017).