There has been an increased focus on issues surrounding sexual harassment and assault within the military.
Less attention has been given to how gendered sexual norms impact access to sexual healthcare and support for service members. This paper will explore how gendered sexual norms can create barriers to accessing such care and resources, and what steps could be taken to mitigate these obstacles.
According to research conducted by the RAND Corporation, gendered sexual norms play a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of service members towards sexual health and wellness. These norms can lead to stigma and shame around seeking help for reproductive health concerns, which can prevent individuals from seeking care and support when needed.
Masculine ideals that emphasize strength, independence, and stoicism may discourage men from seeking help for erectile dysfunction or other sexual problems. Similarly, feminine ideals that prioritize modesty, self-control, and deference may make it difficult for women to seek assistance for sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy prevention methods.
Cultural expectations around gender roles and relationships can also impact access to sexual healthcare and support. Traditional patriarchal structures often position men as the primary breadwinners and decision-makers in relationships, while expecting women to be submissive and dependent on their male partners. As a result, women may not have control over their own bodies or choices, making it more challenging to negotiate safe and consensual sexual encounters or receive appropriate medical care.
Homophobia and transphobia can make it harder for LGBTQ+ service members to feel comfortable seeking care or disclosing their identities.
To address these issues, military leaders and policymakers must take action to promote inclusivity and equity in all aspects of sexual healthcare. This could involve training programs that educate service members about gendered power dynamics and how they affect sexual behavior, as well as providing resources such as condoms, birth control pills, and HIV/AIDS testing kits. It would also be beneficial to establish confidential and anonymous reporting mechanisms to encourage individuals to come forward with concerns without fear of retaliation or stigma.
Ensuring that medical personnel are trained to provide culturally competent and trauma-informed care can help reduce barriers to accessing needed services.
How do gendered sexual norms influence access to sexual healthcare and support in the military?
Sexuality is a complex phenomenon that can manifest itself differently for everyone. Gendered sexual norms influence how people view their sexual desires and needs. Therefore, they may feel ashamed to seek help regarding their sexual health when there are such norms. The military has strict regulations on what constitutes acceptable behavior and appearance, which may further discourage individuals from seeking help.