The process of reintegrating into civilian life after military service can be difficult for many veterans, particularly those who have experienced traumatic events during their time of service. These events can include combat stress, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual assault, or other forms of violence. These experiences can challenge an individual's sense of self and their previous values and assumptions about the world around them.
A soldier may have held the belief that war is necessary to protect freedom and democracy before they were exposed to the reality of conflict.
Witnessing the devastation caused by war may cause them to question these beliefs and reconsider what they value most in life. The same can be true of gender identity, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. How do service members navigate these challenges and reconstitute their identities?
One way that individuals may respond to this challenge is through therapy. Trauma-focused therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT) or prolonged exposure therapy (PE) help individuals work through their traumatic memories and change the meaning they give to them. This can help individuals move beyond the negative effects of trauma and develop new perspectives on themselves and the world. In addition, therapy can provide support and validation as individuals explore their changing identities and relationships with others.
Another strategy for reconstructing identity is through social connection. Building strong relationships with family and friends helps individuals feel supported and valued outside of the military context. It also provides opportunities for dialogue about personal experiences and growth.
Joining groups or organizations related to shared interests or causes can provide a sense of belonging and community.
Education can play a crucial role in helping veterans reconstruct their identities after service. Higher education programs offer a chance to gain knowledge and skills that can open up career paths and allow for further exploration of one's values and passions. Education also provides a framework for understanding complex social issues and promotes critical thinking, both of which are essential for navigating the challenges of civilian life.
How do service members reconstruct identity when operational experiences challenge prior values and assumptions?
After returning from war, many veterans experience difficulty integrating back into civilian life due to changes in their perception of themselves and others. This is because combat forces them to confront and overcome physical dangers while simultaneously experiencing stress, which can result in trauma that may be long-lasting even after deployment ends. When faced with this reality, veterans may feel disconnected from family members who have not experienced the same level of danger or adversity.