Abstract
This study uses the logic of the relational turbulence model to examine the reluctance of military couples to talk about their deployment experiences during reunion. A total of 235 individuals (117 returning service members, 118 at-home partners) completed an online survey within 6 months of homecoming. People experiencing more relational uncertainty and interference from a partner upon reunion reported more topic avoidance about deployment. Relational uncertainty and interference from a partner were especially strong predictors of topic avoidance about deployment for individuals who were highly satisfied with their relationship. The findings have implications for both theory and practice.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 117-128 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Military Behavioral Health |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2017 |
Keywords
- Communication
- deployment
- interference from a partner
- military couples
- postdeployment transition
- reintegration
- relational uncertainty
- relationship satisfaction
- reunion
- topic avoidance
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
- General Psychology