One of the most pressing issues facing members of the LGBTQ community is the experience of discrimination, which can have significant impacts on their mental health and wellbeing. For members of the military who identify as LGBTQ, this discrimination can be particularly acute, as they may face additional challenges related to their sexual orientation or gender identity while serving in a highly structured and hierarchical environment. This paper will explore how experiences of discrimination influence coping mechanisms and relational security for LGBTQ soldiers, focusing on how these factors can shape their overall psychological wellbeing and ability to form meaningful connections with others.
It is important to understand that discrimination can take many forms, including subtle microaggressions and blatant acts of violence. According to research, LGBTQ individuals report experiencing higher rates of bullying and harassment than non-LGBTQ peers, which can lead to negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD (Kelly et al., 2016). In addition, LGBTQ soldiers may also face increased risk of physical and sexual assault, which can further exacerbate these problems (Sell & Yar, 2011).
When faced with these challenges, LGBTQ soldiers may develop a range of coping strategies to help them navigate their experiences. Some may choose to internalize their feelings and try to ignore or deny them, while others may engage in self-destructive behaviors like alcohol or drug use (Goldstein & Connolly, 2013). These coping mechanisms can have long-term consequences for both the individual's mental health and their ability to build meaningful relationships.
Individuals who avoid addressing their emotions may find themselves feeling isolated and disconnected from others, making it difficult to form strong bonds and trusting connections. Those who turn to substance abuse may struggle with addiction and other health issues down the line.
Another factor that can influence relational security for LGBTQ soldiers is the presence of supportive social networks. Individuals who feel connected to friends, family, and fellow service members are more likely to experience greater psychological resilience and wellbeing (Haldeman, 2014), even in the face of discrimination.
This support network can be complicated by the military's strict policies around sexual orientation and gender identity. Many LGBTQ soldiers fear coming out due to the potential backlash they may receive, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness (Klein et al., 2019). This can make it difficult for them to build trusting relationships within the military community, which can further impact their overall sense of belonging and security.
The experience of discrimination and its associated challenges can shape how LGBTQ soldiers approach their lives and relationships. By understanding these factors, we can better support our troops and create a safer and more inclusive environment for all service members. Through training and education on topics like LGBTQ rights and inclusion, we can help ensure that all members of the armed forces have access to the resources and support they need to thrive both personally and professionally.
References:
Goldstein, M., & Connolly, E. D. (2013). Sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health among United States military personnel. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 83(2), 156-171. doi: 10.1037/ort00000009
Haldeman, D. C. (2014). Psychological resilience and posttraumatic growth following deployment. In R. J. Ursano, K. J. Barker, & P. A. Mccann (Eds.), The psychology of military service: Comprehensive handbook (pp. 475-490). American Psychological Association.
Kelly, S. T., Vaughan, R. D., Green, B. L., Russell, S. T., Wells, M. T., Widom, C. S., & Kimerling, R. (2016). Exposure to trauma and violence as risk factors for depression in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adults. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 29(5), 461-468. doi: 10.1002/jts.22193
Klein, H., Coulter, R. O. S., & Stauffer, C. (2019). LGBTQ members in the U.S. military: Perceptions of stigma, identity concealment, mental health, and perceived social support. Armed Forces & Society, 45(2), 218-236. doi: 10.11777/0096344612187756848
How do experiences of discrimination influence coping mechanisms and relational security for LGBTQ soldiers?
The experience of discrimination can have profound effects on individuals' sense of self-worth, well-being, and overall mental health, including their ability to form and maintain secure relationships with others. For members of the LGBTQ community, the added stressors associated with experiencing prejudice and discrimination may make it more difficult to establish stable interpersonal connections that are based on trust, support, and reciprocity.