Sexual coercion is an insidious problem that has affected members of the military for centuries.
The effects of this abuse are often underreported due to stigma, fear, and shame. As a result, many individuals who experience sexual coercion do not seek help from mental health professionals. This lack of treatment may lead to increased anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, suicide attempts, and substance misuse. Psychological interventions can be effective in treating these symptoms; however, the experiences of sexual coercion may impede their success. In this article, we will explore how experiences of sexual coercion affect the utilization and effectiveness of psychological interventions in the military.
The military environment creates unique challenges for those seeking mental health care. Service members may feel reluctant to disclose experiences of sexual coercion due to fear of judgment or retaliation.
They may believe that reporting such incidents could harm their career progression or compromise security clearances. These barriers make it difficult for service members to access supportive resources and may deter them from seeking help.
Mental health professionals working with military clients must navigate complex bureaucratic procedures when filing reports. The lengthy process and potential consequences can also deter victims from coming forward.
Military culture values toughness and resilience, which may prevent service members from acknowledging feelings related to trauma. All of these factors contribute to limited access to mental health services among sexual assault survivors.
When victims do receive therapy, they may struggle to trust their therapist and open up about their experiences. Victims may perceive counselors as authority figures who hold power over their lives. As a result, they may hesitate to share sensitive information out of fear of being labeled weak or "crazy." Some victims may even internalize stigma surrounding sexual violence, leading them to blame themselves or question their own credibility. This distrust can hinder the therapeutic relationship and limit the effectiveness of treatment.
Some therapists may not have the knowledge or experience necessary to address the needs of sexual assault victims. They may lack training in trauma-informed care or fail to recognize signs of retraumatization. All of these issues can lead to poor engagement and reduced treatment outcomes.
To improve engagement, mental health providers should be trained on how to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for survivors. Therapists should prioritize building trust and establishing rapport with clients. They should also validate survivors' experiences, demonstrate empathy, and affirm their strengths. Providers must maintain confidentiality and ensure that survivors feel comfortable sharing their story without repercussions.
They should use evidence-based treatments that are tailored to military life. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and prolonged exposure (PE). These interventions help individuals process trauma and develop skills to manage symptoms. With proper support and intervention, survivors can heal from sexual coercion and achieve greater wellbeing.
By understanding the impact of sexual coercion on psychological interventions, we can better serve our service members. We need to create an environment where victims feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek help. By investing in this critical issue, we can promote resilience and prevent long-term harm among those who protect us.
How can experiences of sexual coercion affect the utilization and effectiveness of psychological interventions in the military?
Experiences of sexual coercion may have a negative impact on individuals' trust in mental health providers and their willingness to seek help for mental health concerns. This can limit the effectiveness of psychological interventions because it may lead to reduced engagement with treatment and decreased adherence to recommendations made by providers.