Service members may experience significant traumas during their time serving in the military, such as combat injuries, witnessing death or violence, or being away from loved ones for extended periods. These experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and emotional turmoil. In addition, teamwork is crucial in the military setting, where service members depend on each other for safety and survival.
Team cohesion can be affected by trauma, leading to misunderstandings, miscommunications, and conflicts between teammates. The way service members interpret relational expectations within teams that have experienced collective trauma can significantly impact team functioning and individual well-being.
Trauma and its effects on team dynamics
Trauma can affect individuals' psychological states, including their ability to trust others, communicate effectively, and feel emotionally connected. When a team experiences trauma together, it can create a shared language and understanding that helps them cope with the stressors they face. Still, this same understanding can also lead to assumptions about how teammates should respond to one another, which can cause conflict.
A teammate who reacts to trauma differently than expected may be viewed negatively, creating tension within the group.
Interpreting relational expectations
When dealing with trauma, service members often develop relational expectations based on their experiences. This means they may anticipate certain behaviors or responses from their teammates based on past interactions.
A teammate who has been injured in combat may become distant and avoid socializing, while another teammate may try to compensate by becoming more outgoing and talkative. These differing approaches can cause tension and confusion, leading to miscommunication and frustration.
Managing expectations and building trust
To manage these expectations, service members must learn to communicate openly and honestly with each other. They need to share their needs and boundaries explicitly and listen actively to understand their teammates' perspectives. Trust is essential for effective communication and building strong relationships, even when faced with traumatic experiences. Teams can build trust through mutual respect, honesty, transparency, and vulnerability. This means being willing to share personal information, admit mistakes, and seek help when needed. It also involves recognizing that everyone processes trauma differently and accepting that not all approaches are wrong.
Service members who have experienced significant collective trauma must work together to manage their expectations and build trust to function effectively as a team.
This process requires patience, empathy, and understanding, which can be challenging. By communicating clearly, listening actively, and prioritizing self-care, service members can create a supportive environment where they feel safe and valued. With time and effort, teams can overcome the effects of trauma and rebuild healthy, productive relationships.
How do service members interpret relational expectations within teams that have experienced significant collective trauma?
Members of military organizations who have experienced collective trauma may interpret relational expectations differently based on their individual experiences and perspectives. Some may feel a greater sense of camaraderie and solidarity with their teammates and be more willing to share personal information and support each other emotionally. Others may withdraw and become more independent, preferring to keep their emotions to themselves.