Deployment is an experience that can be difficult for military couples to process together. When one partner returns from deployment, they may have a different perspective on their time away than their spouse does. This can lead to confusion and miscommunication about what happened during the deployment. In this article, we will explore how individuals can make sense of these emotional misunderstandings and work through them.
It's important to remember that every person processes traumatic events differently. What may seem like a small thing to one person could mean something completely different to someone else. This means that each partner will likely have unique memories of the deployment experience. It's essential to try to understand your partner's point of view before jumping to conclusions about why they are reacting the way they are.
Talking openly and honestly about your feelings and experiences can help you both come to terms with what happened during the deployment. This doesn't mean just telling your story once; instead, keep having conversations until you feel like you've both been heard and understood. Don't assume that your partner knows everything or that you know everything - keep asking questions and listening intently.
Acknowledge that there may be some things that neither of you can fully grasp. Military deployments can involve dangerous situations and intense stressors. Sometimes, it's impossible to put into words what those experiences were like without scaring your partner.
Knowing this fact can help you accept your differences in understanding and find common ground.
Consider seeking professional help if needed. Deployment-related PTSD is common among military couples, and counseling can provide valuable support for both partners as they navigate their new normal together. A therapist can also offer tools for communication and problem-solving to help you get back on track after a difficult time apart.
How do individuals make sense of emotional misunderstandings that arise when partners cannot fully grasp deployment experiences?
Research suggests that deployments may elicit intense emotions within both partners; however, these feelings can be difficult for some to understand due to cultural and socioeconomic differences, life experiences, and even military training (Wallace et al. , 2017).