Soldiers are individuals who serve their country and are expected to follow orders without question.
They also have personal identities and may feel conflicted about following certain orders that go against their beliefs or values. This conflict can be difficult for them to navigate and requires careful consideration. In this article, I will discuss how soldiers can balance their personal identity with collective conformity while serving in the military.
Collective Conformity
Collective conformity refers to the idea that soldiers must adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by their superiors. They must obey these rules even if they disagree with them or find them morally objectionable.
Soldiers may be ordered to carry out missions that violate international law or human rights standards.
Soldiers may be required to engage in activities that go against their personal beliefs, such as killing civilians or destroying property.
Personal Identity
Personal identity is an individual's sense of self-worth, beliefs, and values. It includes factors like race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and political ideology. Soldiers may have personal beliefs that conflict with the orders they receive from their superiors.
A soldier may identify as LGBTQ+ and refuse to participate in a mission that involves discrimination against other LGBTQ+ people.
Conflict between the Two
The conflict between collective conformity and personal identity can cause stress, anxiety, and even mental health issues. Soldiers who do not agree with their orders may experience guilt, shame, and depression. Some may question their decision to join the military in the first place.
It is important for soldiers to remember that they are part of a larger group and must follow orders for the good of their unit and country. This can help alleviate some of the emotional strain caused by the conflict.
Finding Balance
Soldiers can balance their personal identity with collective conformity by communicating openly with their commanders. They should speak up when they feel uncomfortable with certain orders or activities. If possible, they should try to find alternative ways to complete the task without compromising their morals.
Soldiers must weigh their own values against those of their unit and decide what is best for both themselves and their country.
Navigating the conflict between personal identity and collective conformity can be challenging for soldiers.
With careful consideration and communication, they can find a balance that allows them to serve their country while maintaining their sense of self-worth.
How do soldiers navigate the conflict between personal identity and collective conformity?
Soldiers face a difficult challenge when it comes to balancing their personal identities with the collective expectations of the group they belong to. On one hand, they are expected to follow orders and adhere to military regulations that may not align with their individual values or beliefs. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt as they struggle to reconcile these conflicting demands.