Relational Turbulence and the Post-deployment Transition: Self, Partner, and Relationship Focused Turbulence

Jennifer A. Theiss, Leanne K. Knobloch

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study applied the relational turbulence model to the communication of U.S. service members and at-home partners following the return from a tour of duty by evaluating three turbulence markers: (a) relational maintenance, (b) partner responsiveness, and(c) turmoil appraisals. Participants were 235 individuals (128 service members, 107at-home partners) who completed an online questionnaire within 6 months following reunion. Relational uncertainty and interference from partners predicted turbulence markers, and they partially mediated the association between relationship satisfaction and turbulence markers. Results suggest that the relational turbulence model is useful for illuminating the experiences of military couples during the post-deployment transition. Findings also point to turbulence markers that may be salient during a variety of relationship transitions.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)27-51
Number of pages25
JournalCommunication Research
Volume41
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2014

Keywords

  • military deployment
  • partner interference
  • relational turbulence
  • relational uncertainty
  • relationship satisfaction
  • turmoil

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Communication
  • Language and Linguistics
  • Linguistics and Language

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