The military is an institution that requires people to conform to a strict code of behavior based on social norms. In this setting, personal choices are limited and often dictated by superiors. As such, military members may feel restricted from expressing their innermost desires freely. This can result in unfulfillment and dissatisfaction within the relationship.
Relational Satisfaction
In terms of relational satisfaction, communal norms and peer expectations play a significant role. Military members must adhere to rules set forth by commanders that govern everything from dress codes to work hours. These regulations often limit the time available for personal connections outside of the base.
There is a hierarchy within the military structure that dictates who has authority over whom. This dynamic can create tension between partners if one person feels like they have less power than another due to their rank.
Social pressure from peers can discourage couples from speaking openly about their relationship or expressing intimacy in public. All these factors contribute to a lack of connection and fulfillment within relationships.
Sexual Intimacy
With regards to sexual intimacy, social norms also shape what is acceptable within the military environment. While physical contact is allowed among consenting adults, many activities considered romantic elsewhere are not permitted on base.
Kissing or holding hands might be frowned upon while wearing uniforms. This limits the ability to physically connect with a partner without breaking the law or risking discipline.
Some units prohibit visits from opposite-sex visitors which further restricts opportunities for physical closeness.
Since most people join the military at a young age, it's common for them to marry quickly out of convenience rather than desire resulting in unsatisfying marriages later down the line.
Emotional Expression
Communal norms also influence emotional expression in the military environment. As mentioned before, there is an emphasis on conformity and obedience within this institution. As such, individuals may feel pressured to keep their feelings hidden or bottled up lest they upset superiors or peers. This leads to suppressed emotion which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression over time.
Because people often meet their spouses through work connections instead of organic interactions outside of service, there isn't much opportunity for genuine emotional bonding prior to marriage – leading to unfulfilled partnerships where both parties feel isolated despite being married.
Communal norms and peer expectations significantly impact relational satisfaction, sexual intimacy, and emotional expression within military environments. These factors limit personal choice and freedom which leads to unhappiness in relationships.
Social pressure from peers discourages open communication about these topics making it difficult to address any dissatisfaction openly.
In what ways do communal norms and peer expectations shape relational satisfaction, sexual intimacy, and emotional expression in military environments?
Communal norms and peer expectations have a significant impact on the dynamics of relationships in military settings. These factors can influence how individuals perceive their relationships with one another, including levels of relational satisfaction, sexual intimacy, and emotional expression.