In modern societies, the role of the military is to protect citizens from external threats and ensure peace and stability within national borders.
This comes at the cost of creating situations where military personnel must leave their loved ones behind for extended periods. The absence can be felt even more acutely when it involves romantic partnerships and can have an effect on those who are members of LGBTQ+ communities.
Military deployments may last up to six months, which is considered "long" compared to civilian life. During this time, couples must communicate through letters, emails, phone calls, video chats, etc., but they cannot physically touch each other. In some cases, there may also be a geographical distance between them.
One partner might be deployed abroad while the other remains in the United States. The separation can strain relationships and lead to emotional stressors such as anxiety and depression. According to a study published in 2018, same-sex military couples reported higher levels of stress than heterosexual counterparts due to fear of being discovered by colleagues or superiors, prejudice against their relationship status, discrimination within the military institution itself, and financial difficulties arising from reduced income during deployment (Stacey et al.).
Long-term separations do not necessarily result in negative outcomes for everyone. Some studies suggest that couples develop healthier attachments after deployment because they appreciate each other's support during difficult times (Kilcup-McCabe & Segrin).
Deployments provide opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery since each partner has to learn how to manage alone without their significant other (Bray et al.). On the other hand, research shows that men tend to feel less secure about their relationships when they are separated due to the military (Granek et al.), suggesting gender roles play a part in attachment styles. Further studies need to consider factors like socioeconomic status and family background to better understand these dynamics.
Military deployments have implications on all types of romantic relationships, including those involving LGBTQ+ individuals who must navigate societal norms around sexuality and intimacy in addition to physical separation. Therefore, it is essential to develop effective strategies to help them cope with this reality. Emotional regulation techniques such as mindfulness meditation can be beneficial (Bray et al.). Military institutions should also offer counseling services, support groups, and educational programs to assist partners navigating the challenges of deployment (Granek et al.).
How do enforced separations or deployments impact attachment styles and emotional regulation in same-sex military relationships?
Military couples are susceptible to separation anxiety which may cause attachment issues. Separation from the partner can have severe effects on emotional regulation due to prolonged stress levels that may disrupt intimacy and affect one's relationship with other family members. It is important for both partners to maintain strong social support networks to avoid feeling lonely during deployment, while also keeping each other updated about their life events to sustain attachment bonds.