Many people have different opinions about the role that military service plays in forming one's identity. Some believe that it is an experience that shapes their life and makes them into better individuals, while others argue that it has no real impact.
There are some who claim that military service can cause significant psychological damage that lasts long after they return home. This may be especially true for those who serve multiple tours and witness horrific things during deployment.
Veterans often struggle to reconcile the violence they experienced with what they were taught growing up. They may feel guilty or ashamed for having taken human lives, which can lead to problems with intimacy and trust issues when trying to form romantic relationships. On top of this, many veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can make it difficult to maintain healthy relationships even if they don't struggle with moral guilt.
One study found that veterans with PTSD report more relationship dissatisfaction than nonveterans. Another showed that veterans with PTSD had lower sexual self-concepts compared to nonveterans, meaning they felt less confident and comfortable expressing themselves sexually. When experiencing PTSD symptoms such as hyperarousal, intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative mood states, and emotional numbing, it becomes harder to engage in physical intimacy without fear or anxiety. As a result, veterans often struggle with closeness and communication within their relationships.
Not all veterans experience these difficulties. Some find strength in their military identity and use it to build stronger relationships by learning how to communicate effectively and manage emotions. It is possible for veterans to develop better coping mechanisms through therapy, meditation, exercise, and social support groups. With time and effort, they can learn to reintegrate into civilian life and overcome any psychological damage caused by military service. By recognizing the impact of military service on our individual identities and understanding its effect on intimate relationships, we can provide better support for those who have served our country.
In what ways do moral and existential reflections post-deployment influence veterans' relational decision-making and sexual self-concept?
The psychological impact of military deployment can be significant for both veterans and their families. Veterans returning from combat often experience moral and existential conflicts that can affect their relational decision-making and sexual self-concept. Post-deployment experiences may lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety that can manifest in various ways.