Climbing Without a Ladder: The Lived Experience of Military Spouses and Their Non-linear Paths to Self-Actualization, Identity, and Growth

Abstract

In this qualitative narrative study, I examined lived experiences of a purposive sample of 11 Active duty military spouses. I conducted in-depth interviews in which I sought to learn about their military lifestyles and their perceptions of life satisfaction, self-actualization, perceived identity, individual agency, and sense of belonging. Participants reported personal growth, fulfilment and identity reconstruction concurrent with the constraints and inconsistencies of military life, that included frequent relocations, career disruptions, and constrained autonomy. Participants reported continual, nonlinear processes of redefining their purposes, identity, and fulfilment. I conclude that policies and support systems should be inclusive and responsive, reflecting the lived realities of military spouses and recognizing the potential for growth amid constraint.