External Stressors in Field Conditions Eroding Bonds Between Service Members
The ability to maintain cohesion within military units is essential for success in combat operations.
Field conditions can introduce various external stressors that may erode or strengthen the bonds between service members. This article explores how these stressors affect unit cohesion and what steps are taken to mitigate their negative impact.
External stressors that erode cohesion include changes in leadership, morale, living conditions, communication, equipment, and trust.
When leaders are rotated out or new ones come in without proper training, it disrupts established relationships and creates distrust among the troops. Morale drops when units are deployed for long periods or face dangerous situations, leading to fatigue and irritability. Poor living conditions such as lack of food, water, shelter, hygiene, or medical care also reduce morale and create tension. Poor communication between different branches of the military leads to misinformation and delays in decision-making, while equipment failures cause frustration and loss of confidence in leadership. Lack of trust in one's comrades due to misunderstandings or disagreements about mission objectives or personal behaviors further erodes cohesion.
Some external stressors can strengthen cohesion by bringing people together. Teamwork under extreme circumstances fosters camaraderie and mutual respect. Sharing experiences and survival skills builds trust and reliance on each other. Common goals like completing a mission successfully boost morale and motivation, increasing loyalty to the group. Physical exercise improves fitness levels, which positively influences overall well-being and performance.
Celebrating successes and achievements with the team reinforces the importance of working towards shared goals.
To mitigate the negative effects of external stressors, military leaders emphasize training and preparation before deployment. They equip service members with appropriate tools and supplies to handle field conditions. They provide mental health support and counseling services to address issues that may arise. And they encourage open communication to resolve conflicts and promote understanding.
Unit cohesion is essential for successful combat operations, and it requires constant attention and effort from both commanders and troops to maintain.
How do external stressors in field conditions erode or strengthen the bonds between service members?
The bond between service members is affected by both internal (psychological) factors and external (physiological) ones. External stressors such as extreme weather conditions, dangerous missions, traumatic experiences, and prolonged separations from family and friends can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD symptoms, and feelings of isolation. These negative effects are especially harmful for the formation of strong relationships because they hinder trust, intimacy, and communication.