Military partnerships are often characterized by intense emotional bonds and close relationships.
These bonds can be affected by moral-psychological stressors that lead to changes in perceptions of closeness and emotional availability. This article will explore how moral-psychological stress influences military couples' feelings of closeness and emotional availability in depth. It will provide examples from research studies and personal experiences of military spouses and partners who have experienced this phenomenon.
Moral-Psychology is defined as "the study of morality and its cognitive, social, cultural, neurobiological, and evolutionary origins" (Darwall et al., 2015). Stressors that affect individuals' sense of morality, such as guilt, shame, anxiety, and fear, can lead to changes in their behavior, including in the way they perceive closeness and emotional availability in their relationships. Moral stressors that affect military personnel are unique because of the nature of their work environment and the demands placed upon them.
Military members may experience trauma or grief when witnessing death or injury during combat or humanitarian missions. These experiences can cause moral distress, which leads to feelings of guilt or shame about one's actions. The resulting feelings of discomfort can create distance between a couple, making it difficult for them to connect emotionally.
Military service can also result in prolonged separations from loved ones. While deployed, servicemembers may feel guilty for being away from home and missing important events like birthdays or anniversaries. When they return home, they may struggle to reconnect with their partner due to the psychological impact of warfare on both parties. This can further strain the relationship and create tension.
Military couples often share strong bonds based on mutual support and trust.
These bonds can be threatened by moral stressors, leading to feelings of distrust and isolation. Servicemembers who experience moral distress may withdraw from their partners and avoid intimacy out of a desire to protect themselves and others. Conversely, some military spouses may become too dependent on their partners, leading to resentment and frustration.
Moral-psychological stress influences how military couples perceive closeness and emotional availability in complex ways. Understanding this phenomenon can help couples navigate difficult times and build stronger relationships over time. Military spouses need to recognize that these challenges are normal and seek support from other military families. It is crucial to prioritize communication and trust building during periods of moral stress to maintain healthy relationships.
In what ways does moral-psychological stress influence the perception of closeness and emotional availability in military partnerships?
The study of moral-psychological stress has revealed that it can have a significant impact on the perception of closeness and emotional availability in military partnerships. According to research, moral-psychological stress can result in feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety, which can negatively affect individuals' willingness to engage in intimate relationships and communicate openly with their partners.