Partners' Strategies for Maintaining Relational Continuity During Deployment Transitions
Soldiers who deploy often experience profound changes to their behavior and priorities. Their relationship with their partner may also undergo significant transformations during this time. To maintain relational continuity despite these shifts, partners must implement strategies that ensure the stability and connection within their union remain strong. One strategy is to practice communication regularly. Soldiering away from home can cause couples to grow apart, but regular check-ins through phone calls or video chats can help keep them connected. Another strategy is to stay active in each other's lives. Partners should try to involve themselves in their loved one's interests while they are deployed, such as watching movies or reading books together.
Partners can work on establishing shared activities when the soldier returns home, like cooking dinner or taking walks together. By implementing these strategies, soldiers and their partners can maintain relational continuity despite the challenges posed by deployment transitions.
The Importance of Trust-Building Exercises
Trust is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship, and it is especially crucial during periods of separation. To build trust between partners, they should engage in activities that require vulnerability and openness, such as sharing secrets or discussing sensitive topics. These exercises promote intimacy and help create a bond that remains strong even when separated. Partners can also practice forgiveness by acknowledging mistakes and learning from them instead of holding grudges. This exercise fosters mutual understanding and respect.
Partners can explore new hobbies together, which strengthens their connection and provides opportunities for growth outside of the military context. Together, these exercises can contribute to relational continuity and resilience throughout deployments.
How do partners maintain relational continuity when soldiers' behaviors and priorities have shifted dramatically post-deployment?
Partners who wish to maintain relational continuity following deployment often face significant challenges due to changes in their partner's behavior and priorities. These changes may include increased stress levels, mood swings, and difficulty communicating effectively about feelings and experiences. To navigate these difficulties, partners must be willing to acknowledge the impact of deployment on both themselves and their partner, seek support from family members and friends, communicate openly and honestly with each other, and make time for quality time together.