Despite the widespread recognition of the importance of post-deployment reintegration for veterans' health, there has been little research on how it affects their interpersonal relationships. This is especially true regarding their romantic relationships, which are often challenging to navigate due to the significant changes experienced during deployment. As such, this study aims to explore the impact of anticipating reintegration on current relational strategies among military couples.
2. Current Relationship Strategies:
Military life requires individuals to develop specific relationship skills that differ from those required in civilian life. These include increased independence, communication about logistics, and emotional regulation.
Service members may have difficulty expressing emotions openly and must learn how to read body language.
They also prioritize loyalty, duty, discipline, and mission accomplishment above all else. As a result, some couples adopt a 'wait and see' attitude towards sex, focusing more on the physical aspects of intimacy rather than emotional connection or vulnerability. Others choose to avoid discussing difficult topics altogether and keep their personal lives separate from their professional lives. Some couples rely heavily on text messaging or email instead of face-to-face interactions to stay connected while apart.
3. The Impact of Anticipation:
The anticipation of reintegration can profoundly influence current relationship strategies, as veterans begin to plan for a future together with their partners. They may feel anxious about reconnecting emotionally and physically and try to prepare themselves by avoiding closeness and intimacy. Conversely, others may become overly clingy, needing constant contact and validation to reassure themselves that their partner still loves them. This can lead to misunderstandings, resentments, and conflicts if not managed appropriately.
4. Recommendations:
Veterans should be encouraged to communicate openly and honestly with their partners about their expectations and fears regarding reintegration. Couples therapy can help address any concerns and provide support during this challenging time. Service members should focus on building trust and emotional connection through shared experiences and activities instead of relying solely on communication technologies.
Healthcare providers and family members can play an essential role in supporting reintegration efforts by providing resources and education on common post-deployment issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse.
How does the anticipation of reintegration into civilian life influence current relational strategies?
Reintegration into civilian life can be both exciting and challenging for military veterans who have spent years away from their families and friends. The anticipation of returning home may lead some individuals to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of adjusting to new routines, social norms, and expectations. This can impact their relationships with family members, significant others, colleagues, and other acquaintances, as they may struggle to find a balance between past and present identities.