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Separation and Reunion Introduction Separation Reunion Feelings & Behavior INTRODUCTION.  In no other profession is family separation found so frequently as it is in the military service.  These separations take many forms and no matter what form it is, a stressful, and at times, traumatic situation is created for all members of the family unit. SEPARATION.  The soldier is deployed and communications with family are minimal (usually by telephone or letters).  The family at home is growing/changing.  There are increased responsibilities assumed by spouse, family routines have changed, children accept more responsibilities. FAMILY DISRUPTIONS.  The stress of separation can disrupt normal family functions.  This disruption often leads to troubled soldiers and reduced mission effectiveness. REUNION.  What it takes for family members to get to know one another again.  Occurs the first few days after the family is back together.  A period of happiness, celebrating, togetherness, sharing, courting, all the things it takes to get to know each other again and begin coming together as a family unit.  This stage occurs in the time before, during, and following the actual reunion. REUNION STRESS.  Families need to prepare for some changes in the home when reunion occurs. The people themselves haven't changed, but coping skills have.  Those changes will cause stress.

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