LGBT individuals have unique challenges when it comes to balancing their personal lives with their work life, especially in military settings where there is often a strict code of conduct that must be followed. In this paper, we will explore how LGBT service members navigate these issues and discuss some of the strategies they employ to ensure they can maintain healthy relationships while also fulfilling their responsibilities as soldiers.
One common challenge faced by LGBT service members is finding time for romantic partnerships when they are constantly on duty. This can be particularly difficult if they are stationed far from home or deployed overseas, which may mean that they cannot easily return home to spend time with their significant others. To overcome this obstacle, many LGBT service members rely on technology such as video chat and phone calls to stay connected with their partners, even during long deployments. Some also make an effort to plan visits with their partners whenever possible, despite the challenges involved in arranging leave time and travel.
Another challenge faced by LGBT service members is navigating institutional norms that may not fully support their sexuality.
Many branches of the military have policies prohibiting public displays of affection between same-sex couples, making it difficult for them to express their relationship status to other soldiers. In response to this, some LGBT service members choose to keep their relationships private, limiting their interactions with colleagues to professional matters only. Others find ways to show their support for each other within the bounds of what is acceptable under the rules, such as holding hands or hugging briefly before returning to formation.
To balance these competing demands, LGBT service members often develop creative solutions. One strategy is to prioritize communication with their partners, ensuring that they set aside regular times for conversations and check-ins to stay connected emotionally. They may also seek out social groups or online communities where they can connect with other LGBT individuals who share similar experiences and provide support and advice.
Many LGBT service members strive to maintain a strong sense of self-care, engaging in activities like exercise, meditation, or therapy to help manage stress and anxiety related to work and personal life.
Balancing relational needs with operational duties, professional identity, and institutional norms requires resilience and adaptability on the part of LGBT service members. By developing strategies for managing competing demands, they can ensure that they are able to thrive both personally and professionally while serving their country.
How do LGBT service members balance relational needs with operational duties, professional identity, and institutional norms?
There are several factors that influence how LGBT service members manage their relational needs, professional identity, and institutional norms. One of the most important is their perception of support from peers, supervisors, subordinates, and family members. If they feel accepted and supported by these groups, they may be more willing to open up about their sexual orientation and seek out relationships.