Sustaining an emotional connection between partners can be difficult when one partner is away from home for prolonged periods due to military service or training.
There are several psychological processes that help maintain emotional closeness during these times. One such process is communication. Couples who communicate regularly through phone calls, emails, letters, or video chats tend to feel more connected and supported even though they're physically apart. This helps them stay updated on each other's lives, share their thoughts and feelings, and receive validation from each other.
Another process is trust. Trust involves having confidence in your partner's ability to make good decisions, act responsibly, and keep your best interests in mind while you're away. Building trust takes time and effort, but it's essential for maintaining emotional closeness. Partners can build trust by being honest and transparent with each other, being reliable and dependable, and showing empathy and support.
A third process is gratitude. Expressing gratitude towards your partner helps build intimacy and strengthen the relationship. It shows appreciation for their sacrifices and commitment to the relationship. Gratitude can be expressed verbally, written down, or even displayed through small gifts or gestures. The act of giving thanks creates a positive cycle that reinforces the couple's bond and makes them feel more connected.
Active listening is crucial to sustained emotional closeness. Active listening means paying attention to your partner without interruption or judgment, reflecting back what they say, and asking follow-up questions to show understanding. It demonstrates interest and support, which can help ease stress and anxiety caused by separation.
Psychological processes such as communication, trust, gratitude, and active listening play an important role in supporting sustained emotional closeness between partners separated by deployment or training. By prioritizing these behaviors, couples can stay connected and maintain a strong bond despite the challenges of distance and absence.
What psychological processes support sustained emotional closeness in couples separated by deployment or training?
To establish sustained emotional closeness with a loved one who is away due to deployment or training, individuals may engage in various psychological processes that can help maintain connection despite physical distance. One such process involves regular communication, which provides a sense of continuity and helps alleviate feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Another process involves creating shared experiences through digital technologies, such as video chats, social media, or online gaming.