A study conducted by scientists from the United States Army Research Institute found that extended deployments can significantly impact soldiers' emotional bonds with their partners, children, family members, friends, and even pets. Deployments lasting longer than six months have been linked to increased levels of anxiety, depression, anger, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol abuse, and suicide attempts among military personnel. In addition, separation has been shown to affect the development of attachment styles, leading to changes in how individuals perceive relationships and commit to them long-term. This paper will explore these effects in greater depth, examining what researchers believe are some of the underlying mechanisms behind such alterations in attachment styles and relational commitment.
The first section of this paper will examine how extended separations due to deployment may influence soldiers' internal models of attachment. Attachment theory is a psychological model that describes the formation of emotional connections between infants and their primary caregivers during early childhood. These initial attachments shape an individual's expectations for future relationships, influencing their ability to form close bonds with others later in life. Extended separations caused by military service can disrupt this process, as soldiers miss out on critical bonding experiences with their loved ones. As a result, they may become more wary of forming strong emotional ties or find it difficult to trust those around them, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The second section will discuss how soldiers' perceptions of commitment may change after experiencing extended deployments. Commitment refers to one's willingness to invest time, energy, and resources into a relationship over an extended period. When soldiers return home from deployment, they often feel detached from their loved ones due to missed opportunities for connection and intimacy. This can lead to increased conflict within relationships, leading to breakups or divorces in extreme cases.
The third section will explore possible solutions for improving soldier well-being following extended separation periods. This includes providing adequate mental health services, ensuring regular communication with family members, fostering healthy coping mechanisms, and promoting reintegration into civilian life after deployment. By addressing these issues head-on, we can help ensure that our servicemen and women receive the support they need to maintain healthy relationships long-term.
Research has shown that extended deployments have profound effects on soldiers' attachment styles and relational commitment. By understanding these changes, we can develop better strategies for supporting our troops during and after deployment, promoting healthier and more fulfilling relationships in the future.
How do extended separations due to deployment alter soldiers' internal models of attachment and long-term relational commitment?
The extended separations that are caused by military deployments can have a significant impact on the soldier's attachment styles and their long-term relational commitment. Deployment often creates an environment where there is a greater degree of uncertainty regarding the future, which may lead to increased anxiety and insecurity about the relationship. This can result in difficulties with trust and intimacy, as well as a sense of disconnection from one's partner.