Personal Investment in Close Relationships
Relationships require time, effort, energy, attention, care, and emotional connection for them to flourish. When people are constantly in danger of being separated from their loved ones or forced to leave them behind in order to focus on other aspects of their lives, this can cause tension and strain within the relationship. This is because relationships thrive when they have continuity, stability, security, predictability, and commitment.
Separation can be a factor that causes people to question whether they should invest in close relationships, which could lead to a lack of motivation to maintain these connections.
Separation from Loved Ones
Being physically or emotionally distant from someone who you love creates feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and fear. This can lead to withdrawal, detachment, or anger, which can harm the relationship. People may become less invested in the relationship if they feel as though it cannot provide the same level of support and comfort they had before. They may also worry about the future and what will happen when they eventually return home after long deployments. These thoughts can create more stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, making it difficult to fully invest in the relationship.
Changes in Investment Levels
When personal investment levels change, so does the quality of the relationship. People may become less committed to the relationship and put less energy into it, leading to resentment and frustration. They may also start to question why they are investing so much time and effort into something that might not last. The constant possibility of leaving or returning can make it hard for couples to plan for the future together and establish trust, communication, and intimacy.
Risk Taking
People who are always on the move risk losing their relationships if they do not properly prioritize them. When relationships are constantly changing and evolving, there is no guarantee that things will work out as expected. This can cause people to hold back on certain aspects of their lives, like dating or pursuing other interests, for fear of losing those relationships entirely. It can also make people hesitant to take risks or commit because they don't know how long they will be around.
Close relationships require time, effort, and commitment.
The constant possibility of separation or return to civilian life can have a significant impact on how invested someone becomes in these connections. It can lead to feelings of loneliness, detachment, anxiety, anger, and confusion, which can harm the relationship. Without proper communication, understanding, support, and trust, relationships cannot survive long periods of absence or instability.
How does the constant possibility of separation or return to civilian life influence personal investments in close relationships?
The possibility of separation can cause anxiety and uncertainty in close relationships. People may start to feel uneasy about their relationship, leading them to withdraw emotionally or engage in avoidant behaviors. On the other hand, they may also try to reassure themselves by making emotional investments in the relationship, such as expressing more love and affection for their partner. This can lead to a cycle of push and pull that can strain the relationship over time.