The term 'relational trust' refers to an interpersonal relationship wherein one party places confidence in another to perform certain tasks or duties without expecting betrayal of the agreement between them. This type of trust is typically built up through consistent behavior demonstrating reliability and integrity. In a military setting, this can be particularly crucial when it comes to the safety and effectiveness of operations.
For members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community who have experienced trauma related to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression during deployment, relational trust may play a vital role in mediating the psychological effects of such experiences. Research suggests that LGBT soldiers are more likely to experience operational trauma than their heterosexual peers due to discrimination, stigma, and lack of acceptance within the military.
One study found that LGBT soldiers who reported high levels of relational trust with their fellow soldiers were less likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety following combat deployment compared to those with low levels of trust. The researchers suggested that this was because relational trust facilitates social support, which helps mitigate the negative impacts of trauma by providing emotional comfort and practical assistance.
Another study examined the impact of relational trust on intimate relationships among LGBT veterans and found that higher levels of trust were associated with greater relationship satisfaction and lower levels of conflict. The authors proposed that trust enables open communication and mutual understanding, allowing partners to better navigate difficult conversations about past trauma and build resilience together.
These findings highlight the importance of fostering relational trust as a means of supporting the mental health of LGBT soldiers who have experienced operational trauma. By creating safe and secure spaces where trust is valued and encouraged, we can create an environment where LGBT service members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and receiving the support they need to heal from trauma.
What role does relational trust play in mediating the psychological effects of operational trauma in LGBT soldiers?
The term "operational trauma" refers to any type of mental distress that can occur as a result of exposure to stressful situations related to military operations. Operational trauma may include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Research has shown that operational trauma can have significant impacts on the well-being of individuals who experience it.