After experiencing trauma together, such as the loss of a loved one or witnessing combat, some people report an increased closeness in their relationship, which can be explained by a phenomenon called post-traumatic relational growth. In this process, couples come to appreciate their partner's support more deeply and find new ways to connect that would otherwise have been impossible without the shared experience.
Some research suggests that certain psychological factors may help facilitate this growth for same-sex military partnerships specifically.
Prior attachment security and trust in the relationship may contribute to greater resilience during trauma and thus better post-traumatic relational growth.
Open communication about emotions and vulnerability may allow couples to work through difficult experiences together more effectively.
Understanding how these factors play into post-traumatic relational growth can provide valuable insights for those seeking to strengthen their relationships after trauma.
Attachment Security
Attachment theory posits that all individuals have an innate desire for closeness and connection with others. People who feel securely attached are generally confident in their partner's love and support, while those who feel insecurely attached may fear rejection and abandonment. This sense of safety is especially important when facing adversity, as it can help reduce anxiety and increase feelings of comfort and safety. In turn, secure attachments can foster greater trust in one's partner and a willingness to rely on them during times of stress.
In a study of same-sex military couples, secure attachment was positively associated with both post-traumatic growth and post-traumatic relational growth. Specifically, participants who reported higher levels of attachment security were more likely to report enhanced emotional intimacy, increased appreciation of their partner, and improved problem-solving abilities within their relationship following combat exposure. These findings suggest that secure attachment may be an important predictor of positive outcomes in post-traumatic relational growth for same-sex military partnerships.
Trust
Trust is another crucial factor in post-traumatic relational growth, particularly for same-sex military couples. When partners trust each other deeply, they are better able to share their vulnerabilities and work through difficult experiences together without fear of judgment or criticism. This trust allows couples to build a stronger foundation for communication and support. A recent study found that same-sex couples who reported high levels of trust had greater resilience during combat trauma than those who reported low levels of trust.
Trust was positively correlated with both individual and couple post-traumatic growth outcomes after trauma.
Open communication about emotions can contribute to this sense of trust and ultimately facilitate post-traumatic relational growth. Couples who communicate effectively are more likely to feel understood and supported by their partner, which can increase feelings of safety and comfort. By sharing their thoughts and feelings, couples can also work through difficult issues together and develop a deeper understanding of one another's perspectives.
It is important to note that not all relationships experience post-traumatic relational growth after trauma. Factors such as prior experiences of childhood adversity or family dysfunction may reduce the likelihood of experiencing positive changes in a relationship after trauma. Similarly, certain personality factors like neuroticism may make individuals less receptive to change and thus less likely to benefit from post-traumatic relational growth. Nevertheless, understanding these psychological factors can help individuals and couples navigate difficult experiences and potentially strengthen their relationships.
Post-traumatic relational growth refers to the phenomenon wherein couples come to appreciate each other more deeply following shared adversity. Attachment security, trust, and open communication are all key psychological factors that may enhance this process for same-sex military partnerships specifically. These findings suggest that feeling securely attached, trusting one's partner, and communicating effectively can promote resilience during stressful times and lead to greater appreciation and connection within a relationship. By addressing these factors, couples can build stronger foundations for their relationships and work through challenges together more effectively.
What psychological factors enhance post-traumatic relational growth in same-sex military partnerships?
To be sure, individuals who experience trauma together are at increased risk of developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms, which may also impact their relationship negatively. It is therefore crucial that both individuals receive proper support and treatment for their individual PTSD symptoms as well as their relationship with each other. Psychologists have found that sharing experiences, validating feelings, and being open about difficult topics can strengthen relationships after trauma.