The word "reconciliation" refers to the process of restoring harmony after a dispute has occurred. It can be applied to many contexts, including interpersonal relationships and politics. In this case, I will focus on how soldiers manage their dependency needs while trying to protect themselves during warfare situations. Dependency is an inherently human trait that allows individuals to survive better when they rely on others for support and protection.
During wartime, where people are constantly under threat of death or injury, it may seem counterintuitive for soldiers to engage in behaviors that increase their reliance on others rather than relying solely on themselves for survival. Self-preservation strategies, on the other hand, involve actions taken by individuals to preserve their own lives, such as using weapons, hiding from enemies, and fleeing danger zones. The question then arises: How do soldiers reconcile these contradictory demands?
One possible answer lies in the concept of trust. Trust involves believing that someone else will provide assistance in times of need without necessarily expecting anything in return. Soldiers who form strong bonds of trust with their comrades are more likely to seek help when needed, even if doing so exposes them to greater vulnerability.
If one soldier becomes injured and cannot fight anymore, they may ask another soldier to carry them out of harm's way instead of attempting to escape alone. This creates a mutual dependency relationship between the two soldiers, but it also provides benefits for both parties. The wounded soldier gets rescued and saved from potential harm, while the healthy soldier gains a sense of loyalty and camaraderie from helping out their fellow soldier.
Another factor contributing to the reconciliation of dependence and self-preservation strategies is teamwork. In many combat situations, individual soldiers must work together as a unit to achieve success. By relying on each other, they create a stronger fighting force than any single soldier could achieve alone. Teamwork requires a certain level of dependence on one another, which can be challenging during wartime where survival is the primary objective.
By working together, soldiers can reduce the risk of casualties and increase their chances of completing their mission successfully.
Despite the importance of interdependence, some soldiers may still struggle to reconcile their needs for protection with their reliance on others. This can lead to internal conflict and feelings of guilt or shame about being perceived as weak or dependent.
Acknowledging these emotions and seeking support from others can help individuals develop coping mechanisms that allow them to balance their needs for safety and connection.
Engaging in activities such as meditation, physical exercise, and therapy can provide additional tools to manage stress and anxiety related to warfare.
Soldiers must navigate a complex tension between their need for independence and their reliance on others to stay alive during times of conflict. Reconciling this paradox involves trust, teamwork, and personal coping mechanisms that enable them to maintain a sense of autonomy while recognizing their interdependency with others. By understanding the psychological and emotional factors involved in reconciling these opposing forces, we can better support those who serve in our armed forces.
How do soldiers reconcile dependence with self-preservation strategies?
Despite the fact that soldiers are trained to depend on their comrades during wartime, they also have to adopt various survival tactics to protect themselves against hostile situations. This can lead to feelings of ambivalence as soldiers may feel conflicted about relying on others while simultaneously striving for self-sufficiency.