Intimate relations often bring about emotional vulnerability that may conflict with the psychological need to preserve oneself. Soldiers are especially prone to such vulnerabilities due to their profession's high level of stress and risk.
There is no clear consensus on how they manage these conflicting needs. Some argue that soldiers learn to suppress their feelings to remain mentally tough while others claim that they form close bonds with comrades who share similar experiences. This paper explores these arguments and offers potential solutions for negotiating relational vulnerability.
How do soldiers cope with emotional self-preservation?
Studies show that soldiers develop strategies to avoid emotional vulnerability and protect themselves from negative consequences.
Soldiers may deny the severity of trauma or minimize its impact on them. They may also distance themselves emotionally from loved ones and rely on humor as a coping mechanism. These behaviors help soldiers maintain mental toughness and focus on their duties.
Negotiating intimacy in relationships
Soldiers can navigate intimacy through various means. They might have sex with partners before deployment to avoid attachment and prevent emotional pain upon separation. Alternatively, they could form close friendships based on shared values and experiences to create an emotional outlet without romantic expectations.
Some soldiers may engage in risky behaviors like gambling or substance abuse to numb their emotions and avoid closeness.
The importance of relational support
Relational support is critical for soldiers' well-being. It allows them to process emotions safely and avoid isolation. Soldiers need friends who understand their unique challenges and provide unconditional support. Such support can come from family members, fellow veterans, or counselors. It is essential for soldiers to find safe spaces where they can express themselves freely and receive validation without judgment.
How do soldiers negotiate relational vulnerability when intimacy conflicts with the psychological need for emotional self-preservation?
The emotional vulnerability of soldiers is often associated with their fear of letting down their comrades and families by displaying weaknesses that may jeopardize their chances of survival. This can create an internal conflict between the soldier's desire for intimate connections and their need for protection from emotional trauma.