Leadership Fairness and Relationships Among LGBT Service Members
The US military has made significant progress toward inclusivity in recent years but there are still many barriers for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) service members to overcome. One such obstacle is the perception of fairness when it comes to leadership within their units. Leadership is an essential part of any organization and it plays a critical role in shaping the culture and dynamics among its members. The way leaders treat their subordinates can have a direct impact on how those subordinates perceive their unit and their peers. This article will explore how leadership fairness influences relationship dynamics among LGBT service members and how it affects their wellbeing and performance.
Definition of Leadership Fairness
When discussing leadership, it is important to define what constitutes "fairness" and what does not. Fairness can be subjective, depending on individual experiences and cultural norms. In general, however, fairness refers to treating people equally without regard to personal characteristics like race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status. It also means providing equal access to resources and opportunities while maintaining high standards of accountability.
In the context of the military, fairness may mean different things based on rank and position.
An enlisted member might expect that their superior officer will take into consideration their unique needs as a person with limited authority over them. On the other hand, an officer may believe that they should hold all members accountable regardless of personal circumstances. Regardless of rank, all leaders should strive to create a safe environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Effects of Unfair Treatment
Unfair treatment can have a range of negative effects on relationships among LGBT service members. When someone feels marginalized or treated unfairly, it can lead to feelings of anger, resentment, or even depression. These emotions can interfere with their ability to perform their duties effectively and contribute positively to their unit's success.
Unfair treatment can create divisions within the group and make teamwork more challenging. If one subordinate perceives themselves as being mistreated by their leader, they may not trust others in the same role and may become less willing to work with them. This can result in tension and conflict that ultimately hurts morale and performance.
Impact of Leadership Fairness on Wellbeing
The perception of leadership fairness can also impact an individual's mental health and wellbeing. If someone feels like they are being treated fairly and valued for their contributions, they are likely to feel more engaged, motivated, and satisfied with their job. Conversely, if someone feels marginalized or disrespected, they may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms can negatively affect their physical and psychological health over time.
When someone perceives their unit to be unjust or biased against certain groups, they may withdraw from social interactions or avoid engaging in activities that involve other members. This isolation can further exacerbate mental health issues and contribute to a cycle of self-destructive behavior.
Strategies for Promoting Fairness
There are several strategies leaders can use to promote fairness among LGBT service members. First, they should strive to be transparent about their expectations and standards. Everyone should know what is expected of them and how they will be evaluated.
Leaders must hold all members accountable to those standards without making exceptions based on personal circumstances. This ensures that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources while maintaining high standards of performance.
Leaders should also foster an environment where all voices are heard and respected. They should actively seek out diverse perspectives and encourage collaboration between team members. By doing so, they create a safe space where people can express themselves freely without fear of repercussions.
Leaders should take steps to ensure that all members have equal access to benefits and support systems like training and mentorship programs.
The perception of leadership fairness plays a significant role in shaping relationship dynamics among LGBT service members. Unfair treatment can lead to negative emotions, interpersonal conflict, and lower morale and performance. Leaders who prioritize fairness by holding all members accountable, seeking out diverse perspectives, and providing equal opportunities will create a more positive and productive work environment for everyone involved. By creating a culture of inclusion and respect, military organizations can better serve their mission and ensure that all members feel valued and supported.
How do perceptions of leadership fairness influence relationship dynamics among LGBT service members?
The study by Smith et al (2018) suggests that there is a strong correlation between perceived fair treatment within an organization and workplace satisfaction among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members. The authors found that when leaders demonstrate fairness towards their subordinates regardless of sexual orientation, it enhances interpersonal trust, collaboration, and teamwork among LGBT service members.