Military life can be challenging for both individuals involved in it, especially when they are married to each other. The nature of their work may require them to take part in situations that are physically and mentally demanding. As such, there is a significant risk that couples will experience relationship conflict due to different roles and responsibilities. Some scholars suggest that this can result from hierarchical and operational pressures imposed on them by their employers. This paper explores how military couples negotiate relational role conflicts arising from these factors. It examines how hierarchies and operations impact them and what strategies they adopt to overcome these challenges.
Military couples face relational role conflict because of the hierarchy between them.
One partner might be commissioned while the other is enlisted. Such a setup results in different career paths and rankings within the military, which often lead to power struggles in their relationships. In addition, differences in income and authority also contribute to the existence of relational role conflict. When one partner earns more than another or has greater decision-making power, it creates tension in the relationship. These disparities arise from the hierarchical structure of the armed forces, where some ranks are higher than others based on education, training, and experience.
Military couples deal with operational pressures in their workplace, which affects their domestic lives. Their duties often involve deployments away from home and long working hours, leaving little time for personal matters like spending quality time together. They must balance their professional obligations with family needs without compromising either side's priorities. Consequently, this situation leads to a lack of communication and intimacy, leading to emotional distance between partners.
When one partner serves at the frontline, it is not unusual for them to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that may strain their marriage further.
Despite these difficulties, military couples have found ways to negotiate relational role conflicts arising from hierarchical and operational pressures successfully. One strategy is regular check-ins about what they expect from each other in terms of commitment levels, support during challenging situations, and how much time they spend together after deployment. It helps them address potential disagreements before they escalate into full-blown arguments. Moreover, they create schedules that allow them ample time to interact even if they cannot be physically present due to work constraints.
One can send messages via email or social media platforms to express affection, love, or gratitude.
Relational role conflict arises from hierarchies and operations in the military because of different ranks and duties.
Successful negotiation strategies such as regular check-ins, creating schedules, and maintaining virtual interactions help mitigate tensions between spouses. These techniques enable them to sustain relationships despite being away from home for extended periods while performing critical national security roles.
In what ways do military couples negotiate relational role conflicts arising from hierarchical and operational pressures?
The way that military couples negotiate relational role conflicts can vary depending on their individual circumstances and personalities, but there are some common strategies that may be employed. One strategy is to communicate openly and honestly about expectations and needs, as well as any potential challenges or stressors related to work demands or deployments. This can help both partners feel heard and understood and can reduce misunderstandings and resentment.