Characterizing the spousal cycle of deployment: A qualitative study

Introduction: Extended conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have resulted in an unprecedented number of deployments.  Stage models characterizing the deployment cycle have focused primarily on individual experiences of deployment separation (e.g., emotional cycle; Logan, 1987). One recently evolved framework focuses on experiences of parenting (DeVoe & Ross, 2012); however, there is little scholarship that addresses couple relationship dynamics that are distinct from, but may affect, parenting and coparenting practices.  In this presentation, we present findings from a qualitative study examining adaptation among coparenting couples throughout transitions and strains of recent deployment and military service.

Methods: As part of a needs assessment for a larger intervention study, a series of 38 matched individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 couples who are also parents. All participants had recently been deployed or had experienced the deployment of a spouse. Participants were asked about experiences of parenting, family/couple communication, and the spousal relationship throughout the cycle of deployment. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006).  All data were coded using Atlas.ti. 

Findings: Deployment separation affects spousal relationships and individual partners in unique ways. Salient themes related to the quality of the spousal relationship include 1) minimization or lack of acknowledgement by the service member about the spouse’s experience of deployment and 2) prioritization of coparenting tasks over emotional satisfaction with the couple relationship. 

Conclusions. Unique aspects of the couple relationship can and do influence coparenting practices.  Implications for preventive interventions for specific deployment phases will be discussed.