Throughout history, soldiers have been forced to balance their desire for closeness with the fear of losing it due to the inherently dangerous nature of war. This can be seen in various ways, from the emotional distance that is often cultivated between comrades to the physical and mental separation that comes with being deployed away from loved ones. Despite this, many soldiers continue to seek out companionship and intimacy during wartime because they find it essential for survival both psychologically and physically. They may form strong bonds with fellow soldiers who understand what they are going through, engage in risky behavior such as sex under fire, or turn to substances like alcohol or drugs to cope with loneliness. Some even develop romantic relationships within the ranks, despite knowing the potential consequences of being caught. These actions demonstrate how soldiers reconcile the need for closeness while facing the constant threat of loss in war.
In wartime, soldiers typically form close-knit groups known as "buddies," which provide them with a sense of belonging and support. Buddies share their experiences, jokes, and hardships together, creating an unbreakable bond.
This tight-knit group also creates a barrier against outside influence, making it difficult for new people to enter the circle. This helps protect the group's cohesion but can make it harder to build deeper connections beyond the group. In addition, soldiers are taught not to trust anyone outside their unit, further separating them from civilians.
To avoid feeling alone, some soldiers seek out sexual relationships within their unit. This behavior is especially common among younger troops, as they tend to have more energy and less responsibility than older soldiers. Sex provides a much-needed release from stress and tension and can be seen as a way to feel alive amidst the chaos of battle. It is also a way to express love and affection without the risk of emotional attachment.
There are serious risks involved in having sex during war, including pregnancy, STDs, and unwanted attention from other soldiers. Despite these dangers, many soldiers still engage in sexual activity because they see no other option for intimacy or companionship.
Another way that soldiers deal with loneliness is by turning to alcohol or drugs. Alcohol is widely available on military bases and often used as a social lubricant between friends. Drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamines are sometimes used to stay awake during long shifts or alleviate boredom. These substances provide a temporary escape from reality but can lead to addiction and health problems later on.
Drug use is discouraged by commanders, but it remains a significant problem in certain units.
Soldiers reconcile the need for closeness with fear of relational loss by creating tight-knit groups, seeking out casual sex, and using drugs or alcohol to cope. While these behaviors may seem counterintuitive, they serve an essential purpose in helping soldiers survive wartime conditions. By forming strong bonds with their comrades and finding ways to connect emotionally, even if only temporarily, soldiers can maintain their sanity and keep fighting.
In what ways do soldiers reconcile the need for closeness with fear of relational loss?
Reconciling the need for closeness with the fear of relational loss is an ongoing challenge that many veterans face during their military service and even after they return home from deployment. According to researchers, one way soldiers may deal with this dilemma is by focusing on their immediate tasks and responsibilities, which helps them maintain a sense of control over their environment and reduces anxiety related to potential relational losses.