Most people know that the military is a hierarchical organization where members are expected to follow orders without question and show respect for their superiors.
What many don't realize is that there is also an important aspect of military culture which involves emotional restraint. This means that soldiers must control their emotions and avoid displaying them in front of others. While this can be seen as a way to maintain discipline, it can have negative effects when it comes to forming close relationships with fellow soldiers. In fact, emotional restraint may actually hinder the development of deep relational bonds between soldiers.
Emotional restraint is necessary because it allows soldiers to focus on their tasks and not get distracted by emotions.
If a soldier feels sadness about something happening back home, they might cry or become too preoccupied with their thoughts instead of focusing on the mission. Similarly, if a soldier is angry about something, they might lash out and disrupt the team's ability to work together. By controlling their emotions, soldiers can stay focused and effective on the task at hand.
This emotional restraint can also create distance between soldiers and make it difficult for them to form strong bonds. When soldiers are unable to express themselves emotionally, they may feel isolated and alone. They may struggle to connect with other soldiers who share similar experiences, such as those who have been through combat or experienced trauma.
This lack of connection can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, making it harder for soldiers to form meaningful relationships.
Emotional restraint can prevent soldiers from being vulnerable and open up to each other. Soldiers who are afraid to show their true selves may never allow themselves to trust others, even if they would like to do so. This can lead to a lack of intimacy in relationships, which is essential for creating strong bonds. Without intimacy, soldiers may feel that they cannot confide in each other or rely on one another for support.
While emotional restraint is important in certain situations, it should not be the only way soldiers interact with one another. There needs to be balance so that soldiers can maintain discipline while still forming close connections with their peers. One way to achieve this is by allowing soldiers to express themselves safely without fear of judgment.
Soldiers could be encouraged to talk openly about their thoughts and feelings during debriefings after missions or when working closely together on projects. This allows them to build trust and understanding without compromising the military's code of conduct.
Emotional restraint can be a double-edged sword in the military. While it helps soldiers stay focused and disciplined, it can also hinder the development of deep relational bonds. By finding a balance between control and expression, soldiers can create strong relationships that will last long after their service is over.
How does the military ethos of emotional restraint influence the development of deep relational bonds?
The military ethos of emotional restraint can have various effects on the development of deep relational bonds. It may create barriers that make it difficult for service members to form close connections with their fellow soldiers or other individuals outside of the military. This is because the ethos encourages a stoic attitude towards feelings and emotions, which can lead to difficulty expressing oneself authentically and fully.