Sexual satisfaction is a key component of romantic relationships that can be affected by numerous factors. Deployment is one such factor that has been found to impact both partners' levels of sexual satisfaction. When one partner is away from home for an extended period of time, it can create distance between them and their spouse which may lead to decreased sexual desire or even resentment towards the absent partner. This research will explore how deployment affects relationship dynamics and specifically what factors predict sexual dissatisfaction or relational conflict among deployed couples.
Research suggests that there are several variables that can contribute to lower levels of sexual satisfaction during deployment including physical separation, communication difficulties, changes in emotional intimacy, alterations in household responsibilities, financial stressors, and shifts in social support systems. Physical separation is arguably the most significant contributor as it prevents physical contact between partners which is essential for maintaining a healthy sex life. Without being able to physically connect with each other, partners may experience a lack of desire due to decreased arousal or interest in sexual activity altogether.
Deployments often require individuals to take on additional roles within the household making it difficult for them to focus on their relationship when they return home. As a result, some couples may struggle to reconnect after being apart leading to feelings of resentment and distrust which further exacerbate any existing issues related to intimacy.
Communication becomes more challenging during deployment due to geographical distance and limited access to technology. Partners may not be able to express themselves adequately without face-to-face conversations which could cause misunderstandings or unresolved conflicts. It is also possible that the nature of the deployment itself could impact sexual satisfaction; if one partner is experiencing high levels of anxiety or stress from their job duties then this may transfer into their interactions at home resulting in less fulfilling encounters.
Changes in social support systems such as family members' availability or proximity can influence how well a couple manages during this time period potentially leading to increased arguments over who should shoulder what burden while the deployed spouse is away.
There are numerous factors that contribute to lower levels of sexual satisfaction among deployed couples including physical separation, communication difficulties, emotional changes, altered household responsibilities, financial strains, shifts in social support networks, and potential trauma experienced by those serving abroad. Understanding these variables allows us better insight into why some relationships suffer during deployment periods so interventions can be designed accordingly.
What factors predict sexual dissatisfaction or relational conflict among deployed couples?
There are several factors that can contribute to sexual dissatisfaction or relational conflict among deployed couples, including but not limited to the following: lack of communication, changes in role and responsibility dynamics within the relationship, physical separation, stress and anxiety related to deployment, cultural differences between partners, and differences in sexual expectations. One study found that poor communication was one of the most common causes of sexual dissatisfaction and relational conflict among military couples during deployment (Fleming et al.