The military is often described as a conservative institution that has been slow to accept members of minority groups.
In recent years there have been increasing efforts to include lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals in the armed forces, particularly in countries where same-sex marriage is legalized. Deployment to foreign lands can be challenging for all couples, but it poses unique risks for LGBT partnerships due to social stigma, cultural differences, distance, and limited communication. This article examines psychological interventions that may support the stability of these relationships during deployment. It provides an overview of the literature on this topic and offers recommendations for future research.
Researchers have studied various psychological interventions designed to support the resilience of LGBT couples who are experiencing long-term separation due to deployment. One approach involves pre-deployment preparation, which involves discussing potential stressors and ways to cope with them before leaving for the assignment. Another method focuses on maintaining regular contact through text messages, video calls, and other forms of communication while apart.
Some studies suggest that couples benefit from practicing mindfulness exercises or participating in group therapy sessions aimed at managing emotional reactions to deployment-related stress.
Researchers have found that couples benefit from engaging in activities together when they reunite after deployment, such as going out for dinner or spending time with friends.
These findings highlight the importance of preparing for deployment prior to departure and staying connected throughout the process. They also suggest that LGBT couples may need additional support to navigate the challenges associated with being away from each other.
There are limitations to these approaches.
Access to technology can be a barrier for some couples, particularly those who serve in remote areas without reliable internet service.
Not all couples feel comfortable sharing personal details about their relationship with military personnel or seeking assistance. Therefore, more research is needed to explore alternative interventions that meet the unique needs of LGBT partnerships during deployment.
This article reviewed psychological interventions designed to support the stability of LGBT relationships during deployment. While the existing literature provides valuable insights, it is limited by a lack of diversity among participants and a focus on short-term effects. Future research should examine longer-term outcomes and explore additional strategies tailored to the specific experiences of LGBT individuals. It should also consider factors such as cultural background, age, and length of relationship, which may affect how couples cope with separation. By addressing these gaps, we can better understand how to support military families who experience long-term separations due to deployment.
Which psychological interventions best support the stability of LGBT relationships during deployment?
There is evidence that suggests that psychological interventions can help improve the stability of LGBTQ+ relationships during deployments. In particular, couples therapy may be beneficial for addressing communication patterns, managing expectations about time apart, and exploring ways to maintain intimacy while separated.