The role of online communication in the lives of military spouses
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Rea, J., Behnke, A., Huff, N., & Allen, K. (2015). The role of online communication in the lives of military spouses. Contemporary Family Therapy, 37(3), 329-339. doi:10.1007/s10591-015-9346-6
Abstract Created by REACH:
Spouses of Marines who had experienced deployment or extended separation were interviewed to explore use of online social media. Participants reported that social media was their primary method of staying connected to their spouses during separations, but online communication can cause misunderstanding and conflict. Participants shared ways in which family life professionals could use technology to support military spouses.
Focus:
Couples
Deployment
Other
Branch of Service:
Marine Corps
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Subject Affiliation:
Spouse of service member or veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Authors:
Rea, Jennifer, Behnke, Andrew, Huff, Nichole, Allen, Kimberly
Abstract:
The present study explored the impact of online communication and social networking sites on military spouses as they experienced a deployment of their spouse. Qualitative data were collected through one-on-one, semi-structured Skype interviews with ten married military spouses from Eastern North Carolina. Phenomenological data analysis revealed three major themes: (1) social media and its purpose in the life of military spouses; (2) social media and its role in maintaining the relationships among military couples; and (3) implications for therapists to incorporate online communication into treatment plans of military couples around the topics of relocation, deployment, reintegration, and mental health. Key findings suggest that the use of online communication during a military deployment is a positive influence and support for military spouses. The present study provides insights into the life of military spouses and how they use online communication, including social media, as a tool for relational maintenance. By better understanding the function of social media and online communication for military spouses, family therapists can better assist military families through deployments and wartime separations.
Publisher/Sponsoring Organization:
Springer
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Author Affiliation:
Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, JR
Department of Youth, Family, and Community Sciences, North Carolina State University, AB
Department of Youth, Family, and Community Sciences, North Carolina State University, NH
Department of Youth, Family, and Community Sciences, North Carolina State University, KA
Keywords:
couple communication, deployment, military spouse, online communication, relational maintenance, social media
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary