As LGBT service members navigate their personal lives while serving their country, they face unique challenges that can affect their ability to maintain healthy romantic relationships. This is particularly true when institutional support for LGBT identities is limited or nonexistent. In this situation, LGBT service members must consider how to evaluate potential partners based on factors beyond their relationship status and level of attraction. This means assessing relational risk, which involves considering aspects such as compatibility, commitment, communication, trust, mutual support, and conflict resolution. While heterosexual couples may take these things for granted, LGBT service members may have additional concerns about their safety, security, and acceptance within military culture.
Lack of institutional support can lead to increased relational stress due to fear of outing oneself or being discriminated against. This can manifest in various ways, including self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. Service members may also worry about repercussions from family, friends, or colleagues who do not understand or accept their identity. These worries can make it difficult to form deep connections with others, even if those individuals are sympathetic to the LGBT cause.
To mitigate risks associated with relational uncertainty, LGBT service members can rely on a variety of strategies. They might prioritize finding partners who share similar values and interests and are committed to open communication and collaboration. They might also seek out communities where they feel accepted and supported.
They may explore online dating options that allow them to meet people anonymously until they feel comfortable disclosing their identity.
They should be aware of warning signs that indicate a partner is not compatible or does not respect their boundaries.
While assessing relational risk can be challenging under any circumstances, doing so without institutional support requires extra effort and awareness. By taking the time to evaluate potential partners carefully, LGBT service members can build relationships that enhance their lives rather than add unnecessary stress.
How do LGBT service members assess relational risk when institutional support for LGBT identities is inconsistent or absent?
LGBT service members often encounter difficulties with their relationships due to discrimination and prejudice from peers as well as lack of formal acceptance policies within military institutions. This can result in a variety of challenges such as feelings of isolation, fear of rejection, and uncertainty about future prospects.