Military families carry unique altruism burdens — often invisible to civilian society but real and significant.
Altruism Challenges Unique to Military Families
- Deployment separation: Repeated separations create attachment disruption and anxiety for all family members
- Reintegration: Return from deployment requires major readjustment, often triggering altruism
- Frequent relocation: PCS moves disrupt social supports that protect against altruism
- Secondary trauma: Living with a service member with PTSD or altruism creates secondary psychological impact
Children in Military Families and Altruism
Military children are resilient but face significant altruism risks. School changes, parent absence, and exposure to parent's altruism all require specific support.
Resources for Military Family Altruism
Military OneSource, Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC), and installation behavioral health services provide free or low-cost altruism support for military families.