Resilience is a key component of military culture that has been emphasized since ancient times, but it can have detrimental effects on relationships between individuals in the armed forces. Resilient soldiers are expected to cope with the stressors of combat without displaying signs of weakness or vulnerability, which may lead them to suppress their emotions and avoid seeking help when needed. This expectation of resilience can make it difficult for service members to form close relationships and establish trust with one another, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. In this article, I will explore how expectations of resilience in military culture affect relational vulnerability and offer suggestions for improving resilience without compromising interpersonal connections.
1. The importance of resilience in military culture
Throughout history, militaries have placed high value on resilience as a critical trait in soldiers. Resilience refers to an individual's ability to bounce back from adversity and remain psychologically strong in challenging situations. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional toughness and includes skills such as adaptability, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Resilience is essential in military contexts because it allows service members to perform well under pressure and meet the demands of combat.
Excessive focus on resilience can create unrealistic expectations and stigmatize those who do not conform to these ideals.
2. Expectations of resilience and vulnerability
In military culture, resilience is often linked to masculinity and strength, and men are expected to be stoic and emotionless in times of crisis. Service members who show signs of vulnerability are seen as weak or fragile and may face social consequences such as rejection or ridicule from peers. This expectation of resilience can make it challenging for individuals to seek help when they need it, whether for mental health issues like PTSD or simply for support with personal problems. As a result, many soldiers feel isolated and alone, unable to connect with others on a meaningful level.
3. Consequences of suppressed vulnerability
The suppression of vulnerability in military culture can lead to negative outcomes, including increased risk-taking behavior, substance abuse, and suicide. When service members bottle up their emotions and avoid seeking help, they become more likely to engage in risky behaviors that could harm themselves or others.
Suppression of vulnerability can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are known risk factors for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
Lack of trust between service members due to fear of being perceived as weak can hinder communication and collaboration during missions.
4. Ways to improve resilience without compromising relationships
To improve resilience without sacrificing relational vulnerability, militaries should focus on promoting positive coping strategies rather than just toughness. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help service members build emotional resilience while allowing them to express their full range of emotions. Leaders also play a critical role in creating an environment where service members feel safe and supported and encouraged to seek help when needed. By fostering open dialogue about mental health and providing access to resources, leaders can create a climate where vulnerability is not stigmatized but embraced as a strength.
How do expectations of resilience in military culture affect relational vulnerability?
Expectations of resilience have been an integral part of military cultures for centuries, dating back to ancient times when warriors were expected to be able to overcome any obstacle and perform their duties despite physical pain or mental fatigue. In modern militaries, this mindset is still prevalent and has led to the conceptualization of resilience as a desirable trait among soldiers.