When a soldier is deployed to serve their country, it can cause significant changes in the relational dynamic between them and their spouse or partner back home. Deployment often means that the soldier must adjust to new surroundings, work longer hours than usual, and face potential dangers that are not present in everyday civilian life. These changes can lead to feelings of independence for the soldier, which may result in a shift in power dynamics within the relationship. In this essay, I will explore how soldiers navigate these changes and what steps they take to maintain healthy communication and connection with their partners during deployment.
To understand how soldiers navigate changing relational dynamics when one partner becomes more independent, we need to look at the reasons behind such shifts. One reason is simply due to circumstance; being away from home means that the soldier has less time to spend with their family and friends. This can make them feel more self-sufficient, as they have fewer opportunities to rely on others for support.
Serving in combat can be emotionally isolating, leading some soldiers to become more independent out of necessity.
Many soldiers develop close bonds with other members of their unit, which can create an additional source of emotional support and camaraderie that does not exist at home.
Changes in Communication
Changes in communication are a natural part of any long-distance relationship, but they can be particularly challenging during deployment. Soldiers may find themselves communicating primarily through text messages, phone calls, or video chats rather than in person, which can limit the depth and intimacy of conversations. They may also experience delays in communication, which can cause tension if one party expects immediate responses. To address these issues, couples should establish clear rules for communication, such as agreeing on specific times to talk or setting boundaries around responding promptly. It's also important to prioritize positive interactions over negative ones, so focus on sharing good news and experiences instead of rehashing problems.
Shifting Roles
When one partner becomes more independent during deployment, it can shift the balance of power within the relationship. The deployed soldier may assume a new role as provider or protector, while the spouse back home takes on responsibilities like managing finances or household tasks. These changes can be disorienting for both partners, but they do not necessarily have to lead to conflict. Instead, couples can use this opportunity to explore new roles and responsibilities, such as taking on new hobbies or exploring interests together via Skype or email.
Building Trust
Building trust is critical when one partner feels more distant due to deployment. This requires openness and honesty about feelings and desires, even when it feels difficult. Soldiers should be transparent about their daily activities and emotions, providing regular updates on how they are coping with their surroundings and miss them. Spouses should express appreciation for the sacrifices their partner makes by serving in the military and offer support where possible.
Couples should work together to maintain a sense of physical connection, whether through touch or shared activities like exercise or cooking together.
Maintaining Connection
Maintaining a strong connection during deployment requires effort from both parties. Couples should make time for date nights or other fun activities that help them feel closer despite the distance. They should also stay up-to-date on each other's lives, asking questions and sharing details about friends, family members, and work.
Soldiers should prioritize communication over busyness; if they don't have time to talk during their day, they should take a moment to check in before going to sleep at night. This shows their partner that they are thinking of them and care about their wellbeing.
The transition back home after deployment can be challenging for soldiers and spouses alike.
With clear communication, positive expectations, and a commitment to building trust, many couples find ways to navigate these changes successfully. By focusing on intimacy and connection rather than power dynamics, soldiers can return home feeling close to their partners and ready to resume their roles as equals within the relationship.
How do soldiers navigate changes in relational dynamics when one partner becomes more independent during deployment?
When a soldier goes on deployment, there is always going to be some level of change in their relationship with their significant other. It may not seem like much at first, but it can cause a lot of issues over time if left unaddressed. The most common issue that arises when this happens is feelings of resentment from the non-deployed partner towards the deployed partner for being gone so often. This can lead to arguments, frustration, and eventually even breakups.