The deployment of members of the United States military has become an increasingly common occurrence. As a result, many married individuals in the military find themselves facing extended periods of separation from their spouses.
These deployments can take a toll on the intimacy and relationship satisfaction between couples. This article will explore the impact that long-term deployments have on military families and the ways in which they can cope with this challenge.
The Impact of Deployments
Deployment is defined as the temporary transfer of an individual or unit from one location to another for the purpose of carrying out a specific task or mission. For military personnel, deployments are often necessary due to the nature of their jobs. When a soldier or sailor is deployed, they may be sent to a remote location where they must work closely with others to complete their duties. This can mean that they are away from home for months or even years at a time. During this period, they are unable to maintain the same level of contact with their family that they would normally enjoy. As a result, it becomes difficult to keep up with day-to-day activities such as attending school events, celebrating birthdays, or simply enjoying dinner together.
Long-term deployments can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness for both parties involved. Without regular communication, partners may begin to feel disconnected from each other. They may also struggle to share important milestones or experiences without the support of their partner by their side. In some cases, this can lead to resentment or anger if one party feels like they are shouldering more responsibilities than the other.
When individuals return from deployment, they may find that their partner has changed in significant ways that make it difficult to reconnect emotionally.
Coping Mechanisms
Military couples who face extended periods apart must develop strategies for coping with separation and staying connected during deployment. One way to do this is through technology. Many modern devices allow individuals to communicate remotely through text messages, video calls, or social media platforms. These tools can help bridge the distance between two people and create a sense of closeness despite physical separation.
Couples must be careful not to rely too heavily on these technologies since they can lead to unrealistic expectations about what life will be like upon reunification.
Another strategy is to schedule frequent check-ins. This means setting aside specific times to talk about daily routines, plans for the future, and any issues or challenges that arise. It allows partners to maintain a sense of normalcy even while separated.
Military families can engage in activities such as exercise, hobbies, or community service projects to fill time during deployment. This can provide a distraction from missing their loved ones and help them grow closer to others in their community.
It is essential to establish clear boundaries and communication guidelines before deployments occur. This involves discussing things like how often you will talk, what topics you feel comfortable sharing over the phone, and what kinds of support each person needs during this time. By having an open dialogue about these issues, couples can work together to navigate the challenges associated with long-term separations.
The impact of extended deployments on military marriages cannot be understated. Couples must learn to cope with the difficulties of being apart for extended periods and find ways to keep intimacy alive despite physical separation. By using technology, scheduling regular communication, and developing healthy coping mechanisms, military families can make it through deployments without compromising their relationship satisfaction.
What long-term effects do extended deployments have on family intimacy and relationship satisfaction among military couples?
The long-term effect of extended deployments on family intimacy and relationship satisfaction among military couples can vary depending on several factors such as the length of deployment, communication strategies used during separation, frequency of visits, and support from friends and family members. Some studies suggest that extended deployments can lead to increased stress levels, feelings of isolation, and decreased intimacy between partners (Abrams et al.