Relational Communication in LGBT Couples
Research has shown that LGBT individuals experience unique stresses related to their identities, including discrimination and stigma from society and within the military. These experiences can have negative effects on mental health and wellbeing, leading to increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Relationships are an important source of support for many people, including LGBT couples who may rely on each other during times of crisis. The quality of communication between partners is also critical for maintaining healthy relationships and buffering against stressors. This article will explore how relational communication plays a role in buffering against combat-related stress among LGBT couples.
What is Relational Communication?
Relational communication refers to the way in which partners communicate with each other in their relationship. It encompasses verbal and nonverbal behaviors, such as listening, empathy, validation, affection, humor, and conflict resolution. Researchers have identified several benefits of good relational communication, including improved intimacy, satisfaction, trust, commitment, and stability.
How Does Relational Communication Buffer Against Combat-Related Stress?
One study found that LGBT veterans who reported higher levels of relational communication with their partner experienced lower levels of post-traumatic stress symptoms after deployment than those who reported lower levels of relational communication. In addition, research has shown that poor relational communication can increase the likelihood of psychological distress and decrease the perceived social support received by partners. By contrast, when partners engage in positive relational communication, they are more likely to feel supported and cared for, which can help buffer against stress.
Types of Relational Communication That Can Help Buffer Against Combat-Related Stress
There are several types of relational communication that can be especially beneficial for buffering against combat-related stress.
Active listening involves paying attention to one's partner and seeking to understand their perspective, without interruption or judgment. Validating messages involve acknowledging and affirming one's partner's feelings and experiences, even if they differ from one's own. Empathic responses involve understanding and responding to one's partner's emotional state. Humor can also be a powerful tool for reducing tension and creating a sense of connection.
Conflict resolution techniques such as compromise and negotiation can help partners navigate difficult conversations and maintain harmony.
Implications for Practice
The findings presented here suggest that promoting healthy relational communication is an important step towards improving mental health outcomes among LGBT couples. Clinicians working with this population may want to focus on teaching skills related to good communication, such as active listening, validation, empathy, humor, and conflict resolution.
Clinicians should be aware of the unique challenges faced by LGBT individuals and work to create a safe and welcoming environment where they can discuss their experiences openly and honestly.
What role does relational communication play in buffering against combat-related stress among LGBT couples?
Relational communication is essential for building resilience against combat-related stress among all types of couples. It can provide a sense of security and support that can help reduce feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression associated with combat experiences. For LGBT couples specifically, it may be even more important because they often face unique challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity that can exacerbate the effects of trauma.