The concept of partner's emotional distance is often discussed among soldiers but it has yet to be thoroughly researched. In this article, we will explore how soldiers perceive their partners' emotional distance during deployments. What is emotional distance? Emotional distance refers to the physical separation between two people who are connected through an emotional bond. It can occur when one person feels emotionally distant from another for various reasons such as geographical distance, time differences, communication barriers, or personal issues. Why does emotional distance arise during deployments? Deployments often create a gap between soldiers and their loved ones due to long periods of being away from home. Soldiers may feel disconnected from their partner because they cannot maintain regular contact and have limited opportunities to express their feelings. This can lead to frustration, anxiety, and stress. How do soldiers interpret their partner's emotional distance? When soldiers experience emotional distance, they may assume that their partner no longer loves them or has moved on without them. They may also feel rejected or unworthy of love.
There are several other factors that could contribute to this feeling of emotional distance.
Soldiers may misinterpret their partner's actions or lack of action as indications of emotional distance. Some soldiers may even use emotional distance as an excuse to avoid dealing with difficult situations or confronting their partner about problems in the relationship. Can emotional distance be overcome? Yes, emotional distance can be overcome by addressing underlying issues in the relationship. Communication is key - both parties need to openly discuss their feelings and needs in order to bridge any gaps that exist.
Making an effort to stay connected through technology (e.g., video calls) and reassurance can help alleviate some of the negative effects of physical separation.
Emotional distance can arise during deployments but it doesn't necessarily mean that the relationship is over. With understanding and patience, soldiers and their partners can work towards bridging this gap and strengthening their bond.
How do soldiers interpret partners' emotional distance during deployment?
The emotional distance between partners can have different impact on their relationship depending on many factors such as length of deployment, communication means, frequency of contact, and gender roles. During deployment, some soldiers may interpret their partner's emotional withdrawal as a sign of dissatisfaction with the relationship or disinterest in maintaining it while others may feel more connected due to increased responsibility and support from their partner.