The pressure to maintain composure is an important part of the military code of conduct that is often seen as a sign of strength and discipline.
It can also have negative effects on service members' emotional communication. When service members are told to keep their feelings hidden away, they may find it difficult to express themselves in healthy ways, leading to bottled up emotions that can manifest in unhealthy ways later on. This can lead to problems such as depression, anxiety, and even substance abuse.
There are several factors that contribute to this problem. First, there is a culture of stoicism within the military that values self-sufficiency and independence. Service members are often taught that showing weakness or vulnerability is a sign of weakness and should be avoided at all costs. This can make it difficult for them to open up about their feelings, especially when it comes to more sensitive topics like sexuality and intimacy. Second, there is a fear of being labeled as "weak" or "unfit for duty" if they show too much emotion or struggle with mental health issues. This stigma can prevent service members from seeking help when they need it.
Many service members experience trauma while serving in combat zones or other stressful situations. These experiences can cause severe psychological distress, but soldiers may feel that they cannot talk about them without risking their careers. The result is that many service members suffer in silence, which can lead to long-term mental health problems. In some cases, these problems can even become severe enough to require hospitalization or medication.
The pressure to maintain composure has also been linked to higher rates of divorce and domestic violence among service members. Because they are often unable to communicate effectively about their feelings, they may become frustrated and take out their anger on their loved ones. This can have devastating consequences for both the service member and their family.
The pressure to maintain composure is a serious issue that needs to be addressed in the military community. Service members need to feel comfortable expressing themselves freely and seeking help when they need it. By doing so, we can create a culture of emotional well-being that helps service members thrive both during and after their time in the military.
How does the pressure to maintain composure affect service members' emotional communication?
While military organizations require service members to exhibit stoicism and restraint as part of their code of conduct, this behavioral expectation can interfere with one's ability to communicate authentically about their emotions. This may result in suppressed feelings that could lead to negative mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety disorders.