What risks exist for sexual coercion in high-pressure or hierarchical military settings?
Coercion is an act of forcing someone to do something against their will through physical or psychological force. Sexual coercion happens when a person uses their power and authority to pressure another into having sex. In a high-stress or hierarchical environment, such as the military, there are multiple risks that could lead to sexual coercion. These include but are not limited to:
1. Power differentials - One individual holds more power than the other due to rank, experience, authority, status, etc., which can make it difficult for them to say no without fear of repercussions.
2. Isolation - Due to the nature of military work, individuals may be isolated from peers and colleagues, making it harder to seek help or support if they feel pressured into a situation they don't want to be in.
3. Lack of education and training on consent and healthy relationships - Many individuals lack proper education on these topics, leading them to believe that certain behaviors are acceptable or normalized.
4. Alcohol consumption - Alcohol lowers inhibitions and can impair judgment, making it easier for someone to engage in unwanted behavior.
5. Sexualization of the workplace - The culture within some militaries promotes oversexualization and objectification, making it challenging for individuals to speak up about discomfort or refusal without feeling judged.
6. Rape culture - A system where rape and sexual assault are normalized, excused, or downplayed creates an atmosphere where victims may not feel comfortable coming forward with allegations.
7. Social media - Military personnel may post photos or messages online that suggest they are open to or seeking out sexual encounters, making them vulnerable to those who wish to take advantage.
8. Combat trauma - Warfare and combat experiences create a sense of desensitization to violence and aggression, making it easier for someone to rationalize coercive behavior as necessary or justified.
9. Emotional vulnerability - Those experiencing emotional stress, loneliness, depression, anxiety, or other factors may be more susceptible to manipulation and pressure.
10. Perpetrator tactics - Some perpetrators use various techniques such as gaslighting, denial, threats, intimidation, blackmail, etc., to maintain control and keep their victim silent.
To prevent these risks from leading to sexual coercion, measures should be put into place. These include mandatory training on consent and healthy relationships, establishing clear policies regarding acceptable conduct, implementing bystander intervention programs, creating safe spaces for reporting incidents, and punishing offenders appropriately.
What risks exist for sexual coercion in high-pressure or hierarchical military settings?
High-pressure and hierarchical military settings often involve rigid rules, expectations, and social structures that may result in power imbalances between commanders and subordinates. These factors can create an environment where sexual coercion can occur due to the potential abuse of authority and access to resources. In addition, the strict gender roles in the military may contribute to norms and attitudes that condone sexual harassment and assault.