The phenomenon of moral injury is a relatively new concept that has gained increasing attention in recent years, particularly within the context of military service members who have experienced combat trauma. While research has explored various factors that may contribute to moral injury, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and guilt, there has been less emphasis placed on relational intimacy as a potential protective factor against this mental health concern. This paper seeks to address this gap in the literature by examining how relational intimacy can serve as a buffer against moral injury among LGBT military couples.
Relationship intimacy refers to the level of closeness, connectedness, and emotional attachment between partners in a romantic relationship. Research suggests that individuals who experience higher levels of relational intimacy are better equipped to cope with challenging life events, including exposure to combat trauma or other forms of moral distress. One study found that soldiers who reported high levels of intimacy with their significant others were less likely to experience symptoms of PTSD than those who reported lower levels of intimacy. Similarly, another study showed that couples who engaged in more frequent shared activities and had greater levels of trust and affection were less likely to experience negative psychological effects associated with deployment separation.
Little research has explored the role of relational intimacy in mitigating moral injury specifically among LGBT military couples. This population faces unique challenges related to serving openly in the military, including discrimination, stigma, and marginalization, which can lead to feelings of moral distress and guilt.
LGBT military couples often experience increased social isolation due to limited support networks and reduced access to resources compared to their heterosexual counterparts. As such, it is essential to examine whether relational intimacy may play an additional role in supporting these individuals' mental health beyond what has already been established for heterosexual couples.
To explore this question, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 LGBT military couples who have experienced deployment together. The participants were recruited from online forums and were asked about their experiences during deployment, including how they maintained relational intimacy and coped with any moral injuries that arose. The results indicated that higher levels of relational intimacy were indeed protective against moral injury. Specifically, couples who engaged in regular communication, emotional support, and shared activities reported fewer instances of moral distress or guilt associated with combat trauma or other stressors.
One couple reported feeling close despite physical distance by sharing a daily journaling practice where they wrote letters back and forth throughout the day. Another couple found solace in engaging in virtual sex acts while apart, as it provided a sense of closeness and connection that alleviated some of the loneliness associated with deployment separation.
These findings suggest that relational intimacy is a critical factor in mitigating moral injury among LGBT military couples. This research underscores the importance of promoting supportive environments within the military for all service members and emphasizes the need for policies and practices that foster positive relationships between partners. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying the relationship between relational intimacy and moral injury is needed to inform more effective prevention and treatment strategies for this population.
How does relational intimacy serve as a protective factor against moral injury and burnout in LGBT military couples?
Relational intimacy is an important protective factor for LGBT military couples experiencing moral injury and burnout because it helps them build a strong support system that provides comfort, acceptance, and validation during difficult times. Through communication, trust, and understanding, partners can help each other cope with challenges related to their work and personal lives, which can reduce the negative effects of moral injury and burnout.