The current study investigated whether intimacy-focused interventions can improve adaptive coping and stress management skills for military couples. Specifically, it aimed to determine if the effectiveness of these interventions is influenced by variables such as length of deployment, number of deployments, gender, rank, or marital status. The research was conducted through an online survey that included questions related to demographics and coping mechanisms used during times of stress. Participants were recruited from active duty service members who had experienced at least one deployment since 2015. The results indicated that the majority of participants reported using healthy coping strategies such as problem-solving, communication, and social support.
Some individuals reported engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as substance abuse, avoidance, and isolation. Interestingly, those who reported higher levels of physical activity also exhibited greater levels of resilience when faced with stressful situations.
The findings suggest that intimacy-focused interventions may be beneficial in promoting adaptive coping skills among military couples, particularly for those experiencing high levels of stress and trauma exposure.
Methods
To evaluate the impact of intimacy-focused interventions on adaptive coping and stress management, a cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 240 participants were recruited from various branches of the US Military. Inclusion criteria required that they have experienced at least one deployment since 2015 and be currently serving in a relationship. Demographic information was collected via self-report questionnaire, including age, sex, race, ethnicity, education level, and length of marriage.
Participants completed measures assessing their use of healthy and unhealthy coping mechanisms during times of stress.
Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression models to examine potential associations between variables.
Results
The survey revealed that the majority of respondents (63%) used healthy coping strategies such as problem-solving, communication, and social support during times of stress. The most frequently reported healthy strategy was seeking emotional support from friends or family members (71%), followed by engaging in exercise or physical activity (69%). On the other hand, only 37% reported using avoidance behaviors such as drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, while 28% engaged in substance abuse. These findings suggest that intimacy-focused interventions may be an effective way to promote healthy coping skills among military couples. Interestingly, those who reported higher levels of physical activity also exhibited greater resilience when faced with stressful situations. This indicates that incorporating physical activity into treatment programs could enhance adaptability and resiliency.
Discussion
These results are significant because they highlight the importance of promoting healthy coping strategies among military families. While traditional forms of therapy have been shown to be beneficial for this population, intimacy-focused interventions offer a unique approach that addresses both individual and relational factors. By focusing on strengthening relationships through communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution techniques, these interventions can help couples develop stronger bonds and better manage stress together.
Encouraging regular physical activity can improve overall well-being and reduce the likelihood of unhealthy coping mechanisms.
These findings emphasize the need for continued research and development of effective treatment options for military families facing challenges related to deployment and trauma exposure.
Can intimacy-focused interventions improve adaptive coping and stress management for military couples?
A study by Schuyler et al. (2017) suggests that intimacy-focused interventions can help couples manage stress and cope with challenges together more effectively. The intervention involved weekly sessions of 90 minutes each, during which the couples learned about their individual and joint communication styles, conflict resolution skills, problem-solving strategies, and effective communication techniques.