Most people have some idea that soldiers go to war zones for their country, but what is less known is how they deal with the emotional trauma that comes from witnessing death and destruction every day. In fact, research suggests that many men who serve in combat develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or other mental health issues related to the trauma they've experienced. These problems can impact all aspects of life, including romantic and sexual relationships. Societal expectations of heroism, duty, and masculinity shape how service members approach these areas of their lives and can even lead to aggression, violence, and abuse.
One way that societal expectations play into this is through the concept of "heroic" behavior. Soldiers are expected to be strong, stoic, and courageous, which often translates into them feeling pressure to hide their emotions and avoid seeking help for mental health issues. This can make it difficult for them to express vulnerability or ask for support in their personal lives, which may include difficulties forming or maintaining romantic and sexual relationships.
Society often views soldiers as heroes and expects them to act accordingly, which can create an unrealistic standard of behavior that is impossible to meet.
Another factor is the sense of duty that service members feel towards their country and fellow soldiers. They may view themselves as responsible for protecting others at any cost, leading them to prioritize their military duties over their own needs or desires. This can result in a lack of intimacy in relationships, as well as difficulty communicating about emotions and feelings. It can also lead to riskier behaviors, such as engaging in unprotected sex or not taking precautions against STIs/STDs.
There is the issue of masculinity. Traditional masculine norms place emphasis on strength, power, and dominance, which can cause men to suppress emotions like sadness, fear, or vulnerability. This can make it hard for them to express love, care, and affection in their relationships, leading to distance and conflict. Moreover, these norms encourage aggressive behavior, violence, and even abuse, which can be a real problem in both romantic and sexual relationships. Many soldiers experience trauma during combat, which may lead them to lash out or become angry when they return home, putting a strain on their relationships with partners and loved ones.
Societal expectations around heroism, duty, and masculinity shape how service members approach romantic and sexual relationships, often resulting in challenges and struggles. By acknowledging this dynamic, we can work together to provide support and resources for those who have served our country so they can build healthy, fulfilling lives after leaving the military.
How do societal expectations of heroism, duty, and masculinity shape romantic and sexual behaviors in service members?
Service members face complex pressures when it comes to their relationships, including those related to gender norms, social expectations, and personal values. The term "hero" can carry many connotations depending on the context, but for service members, it often means someone who is willing to sacrifice themselves for others.