What is Attachment?
Attachment refers to the emotional bond that forms between an individual and another person or object. It involves feeling safe, secure, and comfortable with someone, and it can be influenced by physical proximity, familiarity, shared experiences, and reciprocity. Attachment theory was developed by John Bowlby in the 1960s to explain how children form attachments with their caregivers during infancy and early childhood, but it has since been expanded to include adult attachment styles. There are four main types of attachment styles: secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant. Secure individuals have a positive view of themselves and others and feel comfortable seeking support when needed. Anxious-preoccupied individuals feel insecure about their relationships and worry excessively about rejection. Dismissive-avoidant individuals avoid intimacy and closeness. Fearful-avoidant individuals are ambivalent about relationships and often engage in them while also feeling fearful of abandonment. These attachment styles can influence a soldier's perception of commitment and relationships.
How Does Exposure to Life-Threatening Situations Alter Attachment Styles?
Exposure to life-threatening situations can alter a soldier's attachment style, as they may develop feelings of insecurity, distrust, and disconnection from loved ones. This can lead to increased anxiety and depression, which can negatively impact their ability to form healthy relationships after returning home. Soldiers who experience trauma during deployment may become more fearful and avoidant, leading them to distance themselves emotionally from family members or friends. They may also have difficulty trusting others due to past betrayals or experiences that led to harm.
Soldiers who have experienced combat stress may struggle with intimacy and may find it difficult to form close bonds with romantic partners.
Impact on Relationships and Commitment
The altered attachment style can affect the soldier's perception of commitment and relationships. Soldiers may have difficulty committing to long-term relationships, as they may feel uncomfortable with the level of emotional intimacy required. They may feel unsure if they will be able to provide for their partner financially or emotionally due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Their lack of trust may prevent them from fully investing in the relationship, creating tension and conflict. The soldier may also struggle with open communication about their needs and desires, leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
Coping Mechanisms and Resources for Soldiers and Families
Soldiers and families should be aware of the potential effects of exposure to life-threatening situations on attachment styles and work together to create a supportive environment for healing. Therapy is often recommended for individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which can help them process their experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Family therapy can also be beneficial in helping families understand each other's needs and develop strategies for navigating challenges. Support groups for veterans and their families can provide an opportunity for sharing experiences and connecting with others who have had similar experiences.
Hobbies, activities, and self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, and journaling can help soldiers manage their mental health and build resilience.
In what ways does exposure to life-threatening situations alter a soldier's perception of attachment and commitment?
Prior to deployment in war zones, soldiers are generally highly committed to their families and communities, as well as the military itself. The prospect of engaging with hostile opponents on a daily basis often brings about an increased sense of camaraderie among fellow soldiers. This is because they rely on each other for survival during dangerous missions. Additionally, the experience of witnessing death and destruction on such a scale can lead to feelings of detachment from loved ones back home.