Sexual coercion is an act involving unwanted sexual contact that occurs when someone uses force, manipulation, threats, pressure, or emotional coercion to have sexual intercourse or another sexual activity against their will. It can occur between strangers, acquaintances, or romantic partners, and it can happen during a one-time encounter or be part of a long-term relationship. Sexual coercion has been reported among both men and women across all age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Recent research indicates that service members are more likely than civilians to experience sexual coercion.
Psychological consequences of sexual coercion for service members
The psychological effects of sexual coercion on service members can vary from person to person. Some may experience trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other negative mental health issues. Others may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance behaviors, and feelings of guilt and shame. Long-term psychological impacts can include difficulty trusting others, reliving the event through intrusive thoughts or memories, and avoiding situations where they might feel vulnerable or in danger. In addition, some may become numb to intimacy and find it difficult to form close relationships. Social isolation, substance abuse, and even suicide can result as a consequence of these difficulties.
Societal consequences of sexual coercion for service members
Sexual coercion can also have social implications beyond an individual's personal life.
Survivors may struggle with their identity and sense of worthiness if they believe that they were at fault for the incident. Survivors may withdraw socially, feeling ashamed, embarrassed, or stigmatized by what happened to them. They may experience discrimination from friends, family, and peers who blame them for the assault or assume that they are damaged goods. This can lead to emotional distress, including feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and anger. Victims often suffer in silence, fearing retaliation from their perpetrators or shame from those around them. As a result, there is little support available for victims within military organizations.
The long-term psychological effects of sexual coercion on service members are significant. Individuals affected by this trauma face challenges in all areas of life, including mental health, social interactions, and career development. These issues require attention and care, but many victims do not receive adequate support or treatment due to the stigma associated with sexual violence. Military organizations must take steps to address the issue by increasing awareness, implementing preventive measures, providing resources for those affected, and holding perpetrators accountable. A more supportive environment will help reduce the prevalence of sexual coercion and improve the quality of life for everyone involved.
What are the long-term psychological consequences of sexual coercion for service members, both individually and socially?
Sexual coercion can have serious long-term consequences on individual psychology and social interactions among military personnel. The victims may experience feelings of shame, guilt, self-blame, fear, depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues. They may also develop trust issues, distrust of authority figures, and difficulty maintaining relationships with others.