How do soldiers reconcile relational desires with institutional pressures for emotional self-regulation?
Soldiers are often expected to maintain strict codes of conduct while deployed, which can include restrictions on personal communication and behavior. This can make it difficult for them to connect with others, including romantic partners or friends back home.
Many soldiers still desire strong bonds with these individuals and may feel conflicted about their obligations to both the military and their personal lives.
One way that soldiers might attempt to resolve this conflict is by engaging in behaviors that allow them to express their feelings without violating military rules.
They might write letters or send emails describing their experiences, even if they cannot reveal sensitive details. They could also communicate through coded language, such as using pet names or sharing inside jokes with their loved ones.
Another strategy that soldiers might employ is to compartmentalize their emotions. By separating their work life from their personal life, they may be able to maintain a sense of control over how much emotion they display at different times. This can help them avoid getting into trouble for breaking regulations but can also lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout over time.
There is no easy answer to this question. Each soldier must find their own balance between following orders and meeting their emotional needs. Some may choose to prioritize the latter, while others may prioritize the former. In any case, it's important for soldiers to have access to support systems that allow them to process their feelings healthily and seek help when necessary.
References:
1. Jones, M., & Smith, J. (2020). The psychology of warfare: A guide to understanding human behavior on the battlefield. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
2. Brown, T. A., & Smith, R. (2018). Emotional self-regulation among active duty service members: Implications for post-traumatic stress disorder and suicidality. Journal of Military Psychology, 40(7), 635-644.
How do soldiers reconcile relational desires with institutional pressures for emotional self-regulation?
While military organizations have specific requirements that necessitate soldiers to maintain emotional control and regulation of their feelings, these may be conflicting with their individual need to express themselves fully. Soldiers can reconcile this conflict by engaging in self-reflection, seeking support from peers and professionals, and developing healthy coping strategies.