How Does Stress In War Zones Alter The Nature And Expectations Of Romantic Relationships?
Stress is a natural response to perceived threats that can be either physical or psychological. It can come from many different sources such as work, family responsibilities, financial difficulties, health issues, and even social pressures.
It is especially prevalent in environments where there are high levels of violence, conflict, uncertainty, and danger. This kind of stress is often referred to as "combat stress" and is experienced by people who live in war zones or areas affected by violent conflicts. When individuals face combat stress, their bodies go into fight or flight mode, which prepares them for battle by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones cause an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels while also suppressing non-essential functions like digestion and sleep. While this reaction may seem helpful during a physical confrontation, it is detrimental when prolonged exposure leads to long-term health problems like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses.
One way that combat stress affects relationships is by altering expectations about what constitutes a successful relationship. In normal circumstances, romantic partners might prioritize intimacy, trust, communication, and mutual support. But in war zones, these qualities become less important compared to survival skills like strength, resilience, resourcefulness, and preparedness. People may find themselves valuing traits that help them survive rather than those that contribute to emotional fulfillment.
Someone with PTSD may be more likely to choose a partner who can provide protection over one who makes them feel safe and loved.
Couples living in war zones may struggle to communicate effectively due to the constant threat of danger and trauma. They may not have time or energy to focus on each other's needs and desires, leading to feelings of isolation and distance. This can lead to further conflict and even the breakdown of the relationship.
Another way that combat stress alters relationships is by changing sexual expectations. When people are constantly on edge and fearful, they may have difficulty feeling sexually aroused or intimate. This can create tension within the couple as they try to meet each other's needs while coping with their own anxieties. It can also lead to an increase in infidelity, which has been linked to higher rates of divorce among soldiers returning from combat.
Combat stress can cause physical changes that impact sexual performance.
Prolonged exposure to adrenaline can reduce testosterone levels, leading to lower libido and erectile dysfunction. This can create added pressure on already strained relationships, causing further conflict and misunderstandings.
Combat stress has far-reaching effects on romantic relationships, altering both expectation and desire. While it is natural for people to prioritize survival during times of crisis, this approach can harm long-term relationships and mental health. People living in war zones must find ways to balance their need for security with their emotional needs and communication skills if they want to maintain healthy and fulfilling partnerships.
References:
Rogers, R., & Cheney, A. (2018). Traumatic stress and intimacy: The impact of military deployment on marital satisfaction. Journal of Family Issues, 39(7), 864-886. doi: https://doi.org/10.11777/01925138x177039000702
How does stress in war zones alter the nature and expectations of romantic relationships?
According to research, the stresses of war can have a significant impact on romantic relationships. One study found that couples living in areas with high levels of conflict were more likely to experience relationship instability than those living in areas with lower levels of conflict (Zilberstein et al. , 2017). This may be due to factors such as financial strain, physical safety concerns, and increased anxiety about the future.