In contrast to a PCS situation like the ones you addressed in Discussion 1, when military personnel deploy, they engage in specific missions that separate them from their families for a period of time. A deployment may, or may not, place military personnel in combat or other types of hostile situations. The deployment lengths can vary depending on the military branch and the type of mission. Regardless of their length, deployments are a necessary, but often difficult, element of military service that requires sacrifices for both military personnel and their families.

The military has taken steps to assist families as they prepare for deployment and as they navigate the challenges related to stages of deployment. Services are readily available to support families as they prepare for this extended separation. As a helping professional, you must understand deployment cycles, the stressors involved in deployments, and the impact these separations have on military service members and their families in order to provide appropriate and effective support.

• Sgt. Cole received his third order to deploy to Afghanistan. He is part of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) unit—a high-risk team responsible for disposing of explosive material. He is leaving for a tour of 2 years. He leaves behind his wife and three children, one with Down syndrome. There is a history of marital discord and rumors of domestic violence.

Post an explanation of two potential risk factors or stressors the military personnel and his or her family might experience related to the deployment in the scenario you selected. Describe one aspect of military culture that might ease the effects of this deployment. Finally, as a helping professional, explain how you might support the military service member or the family during this time.

Be sure to support your post with specific references to the resources. If you are using additional articles, be sure to provide full APA-formatted citations for your references.