The topic of this paper is how soldiers can rebuild relational trust after experiencing multiple traumatic events during their service. Specifically, it explores the effects that cumulative exposure to morally and psychologically challenging operations has on the ability to establish and maintain healthy romantic relationships after returning home from deployment. This includes examining the various factors that influence such trust and offering practical strategies for rebuilding it.
Review of Literature
Several studies have examined the impact of military experiences on soldiers' interpersonal relationships.
Researchers have found that veterans may experience difficulty engaging in close relationships due to PTSD symptoms, such as avoidance, emotional numbing, and hypervigilance (Hendrix et al., 2016; Cox & Burris, 2015; Johnson et al., 2018). These issues can also manifest themselves in intimate relationships and lead to increased conflict and withdrawal from partners (Krause, 2017).
Combat exposure can result in an altered sense of self and disconnection from others (Cox & Burris, 2015), which can be particularly problematic in marriages or committed relationships.
Some scholars argue that moral injury - a form of spiritual wounding caused by witnessing or participating in acts that go against one's personal beliefs - can negatively affect intimacy and trust within relationships (Murphy & Watts, 2019; Haskins & Cheng, 2014). Moral injury can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, isolation, and anger, all of which can impede relationship development and maintenance (Watson et al., 2016).
Soldiers who experience multiple traumas over time may develop hyperarousal, leading to difficulties with empathy and emotion regulation (Stanley et al., 2018), which can further impair the ability to connect with others on an interpersonal level.
Researchers have identified several strategies for rebuilding relational trust after military experiences. Firstly, it is essential for veterans to engage in regular physical activity and socialization with peers to reduce isolation and promote resilience (Bryant-Davis et al., 2013). Secondly, couples counseling can help address specific issues related to PTSD and trauma exposure while providing a safe space for both partners to express their needs and concerns (Krause, 2017). Thirdly, mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help individuals manage anxiety, stress, and emotional dysregulation (Thornton & Carrion, 2015). Lastly, group therapy or peer support groups can provide veterans with a sense of community and shared understanding that can facilitate healing from cumulative trauma exposures (Goldstein et al., 2020).
This article has reviewed the literature surrounding how military service affects intimate relationships and offered practical strategies for rebuilding relational trust after combat exposure. Further research could explore alternative approaches to rebuilding trust, including art therapy, equine therapy, and music therapy.
How do soldiers rebuild relational trust after cumulative exposure to morally or psychologically challenging operations?
Soldiers are trained to handle situations that require them to make split-second decisions under high pressure, which often involve life-or-death choices. These experiences can be incredibly stressful and traumatic, leading to a build-up of emotional baggage over time. As such, they may find it difficult to form strong relationships with others as they struggle to cope with their inner turmoil.