The chaplain of Germany’s Bundeswehr elite soldiers | DW New

Key Concepts:

• Tötungshemmung (Killing Inhibition): The inherent human reluctance to kill.
• Psychologische Betreuung (Psychological Support): Access to psychologists for soldiers.
• Fahrer (Driver): In this context, likely referring to a trusted comrade or superior.
• Vertrauen (Trust): The crucial element for soldiers to seek help.
• Vorleben (Leading by Example): Demonstrating the acceptance of seeking help.

Umgang mit dem Thema Tod und Tötungshemmung (Dealing with Death and Killing Inhibition)

The speaker, likely a Bundeswehr officer, emphasizes the proximity to death experienced by soldiers in his unit. He highlights the importance of open communication about this topic with individual soldiers. He states that serving in this unit brings the topic of death closer than in other professions.

Die menschliche Tötungshemmung (The Human Killing Inhibition)

The speaker expresses his conviction that humans are inherently equipped with a "Tötungshemmung" (killing inhibition), which he considers a positive trait. Overcoming this inhibition is described as a significant and challenging step, and he believes that very few individuals manage it without difficulty.

Suche nach Unterstützung und psychologischer Betreuung (Seeking Support and Psychological Care)

The speaker describes his personal approach to seeking support, mentioning that he frequently consults both the "Fahrer" (driver) and psychologists. He emphasizes the importance of "Vorleben" (leading by example) to demonstrate that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather comparable to a routine visit to the dentist.

Vertrauen als Schlüsselfaktor (Trust as a Key Factor)

The speaker underscores the critical role of "Vertrauen" (trust) in encouraging soldiers to address their problems. He believes that when trust is established, soldiers are more likely to come forward with their concerns. He expresses the opinion that very few soldiers would refuse to confide in the "Fahrer."

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The speaker emphasizes the psychological challenges faced by soldiers confronted with the reality of killing. He stresses the importance of open communication, accessible psychological support, and leading by example to foster a culture of trust where soldiers feel comfortable seeking help to overcome their inherent "Tötungshemmung" and cope with the psychological impact of their service. The "Fahrer" seems to represent a trusted confidant within the unit, highlighting the importance of peer support alongside professional psychological assistance.