The following essay will provide an analysis of the most effective social and emotional supports that can be offered to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military personnel to promote relational stability within this unique demographic. This paper presents evidence-based research findings that have been drawn from relevant literature sources, along with recommendations for how these findings could be implemented into current policies and practices to enhance support structures for LGBT individuals serving in the armed forces.
Social Supports
Social supports refer to the various types of assistance provided by friends, family members, colleagues, and community organizations that may help individuals cope with challenges related to their personal lives, career development, health and wellbeing, and other areas of life. According to recent studies, social supports are crucial for promoting relational stability among all individuals, including LGBT service members.
There is limited evidence-based research regarding the specific social supports that may effectively promote relational stability among LGBT military personnel.
Emotional Supports
Emotional supports refer to the various ways in which individuals seek comfort or emotional reassurance when dealing with difficult situations such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship problems. Research has shown that emotional supports play a critical role in promoting relational stability among all individuals, including LGBT service members.
Recommendations
Based on the available evidence, it is recommended that military leaders and policymakers consider implementing several social and emotional supports to enhance the relational stability of LGBT service members. These include:
1. Peer support networks: Establishing peer support networks where LGBT military personnel can connect with others who share similar experiences and identify common concerns could provide an effective way of promoting relational stability. This could involve creating online forums, setting up regular meetings, organizing group activities, or facilitating mentoring programs where more experienced service members offer guidance and advice to those who are new to the armed forces.
2. Psychological counseling: Providing access to professional psychological counseling services can help LGBT military personnel cope with challenges related to their sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and other areas of life. It is important to ensure that these services are confidential, non-judgmental, and tailored to individual needs.
3. Family support: Encouraging family involvement and participation in the lives of LGBT military personnel can promote relational stability by strengthening familial bonds and providing much-needed emotional and practical support. Military leaders should prioritize initiatives such as family events, workshops, and retreats that promote understanding and acceptance between LGBT service members and their families.
4. Community engagement: Encouraging community engagement among LGBT military personnel may also be a useful strategy for enhancing relational stability. This could involve organizing volunteer opportunities, participating in social events, joining advocacy groups, or attending community gatherings that celebrate diversity and inclusion.
5. Employee assistance programs: Offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) that focus on mental health, wellbeing, and personal development can help LGBT service members address any issues they may be facing and build resilience. These programs can provide resources such as therapy, counseling, educational materials, and referrals to other support networks.
This essay has provided an overview of the social and emotional supports that may effectively promote relational stability among LGBT military personnel. While more research is needed to explore specific strategies and approaches, implementing these recommendations would likely contribute to improved outcomes for all individuals within the armed forces.
Which social and emotional supports most effectively promote relational stability for LGBT military personnel?
Emotional and social support from friends and family members can help strengthen the relational stability of LGBT military personnel. Social support is defined as "perceived availability of social relationships that provide affection, esteem, belonging, and instrumental assistance" (Sorensen, 2017). According to D'Arcangelo et al.