Emotional Re-engagement after Deployments: Using Attachment Principles with Relationship Resources for Post-Deployment Relational Enhancement

摘要

The understanding of attachment theory helps one to overcome personal and relational problems that are exacerbated by past traumas. This thesis project focused on how long durations of separations, especially in a military setting, may trigger symptoms from past traumas, which may impede relational secure attachments to friends and family. A survey was crafted and answered by over 100 adults, including military members, military dependents, and non-military civilians. The results were analyzed to discover how often people were separated from loved ones, the length that perhaps caused problems, and the feelings that developed. A literary review of books and scholastic articles on attachment and military separation provided insight and supporting documentation to the survey. The biblical narrative is evident throughout the project with Scripture passages being incorporated into the text. This project led to the development of a website that provides additional material on attachment, relationship aids, and adverse childhood experiences (ACE) assessment.