Beyond Frontiers: The Critical Role of Cross-Cultural Competence in the Military
Abstract: Cross-cultural competence (3C) has been conceptualized in many ways, but most definitions center on the ability to quickly understand and effectively act in a culture different from one’s own. It is a vital element for military and civilian personnel who must frequently interact with people from other cultures—both here in the United States and when deployed or operating in other countries. Cross-cultural competence can prove very advantageous, as it equips individuals with the requisite knowledge, skills, abilities, and personal characteristics that enable them to function effectively in culturally diverse situations. Furthermore, 3C provides the individual with the conscious knowledge of when and how to switch from an “automatic home-culture international management mode” to a more “culturally appropriate, adaptable mode”. Thus, 3C helps mitigate undesirable and costly outcomes by supporting critical skills, including those needed for conflict resolution, communication, stress coping, language acquisition, tolerance for ambiguity, and adapting to living in other cultures.
Abstract: The unique demands of military life can adversely impact romantic relationships; however, research has mainly focused on these adverse outcomes at one-time point, overlooking changes over time or potential positive outcomes. Using a subsample of 3,845 male and female military personnel and veterans from a large UK dataset, this study examined positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction between two-time points (2007–2009; 2014–2016). Most participants reported no change in their relationship satisfaction, suggesting stability − 8% reported a positive change and 10% a negative change. Positive change was associated with being in a long-term relationship, alcohol misuse remission, and persistent alcohol misuse. Negative change was associated with the onset of mental health problems (probable PTSD, CMD, or alcohol misuse) and having children under 18. Some factors, like increasing age, childhood family relationship adversity, and mental health problems, were associated with both positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction. This study highlights the complexity of factors associated with relationship satisfaction among military personnel and veterans, with some experiencing positive changes, as well as negative changes over time.