There has been an increasing emphasis placed on creating diverse and inclusive workplaces that celebrate individual differences, including those related to gender identity and sexual orientation. One area where this is particularly important is within military organizations, which have historically been known for their conservative attitudes towards sexuality.
Research suggests that LGBT soldiers may be more likely to experience stressors than their heterosexual counterparts due to the stigma associated with their identities, and as such, they often rely on relational coping strategies to manage these challenges. Organizational culture can play a significant role in shaping how LGBT soldiers navigate these challenges, influencing both the types of coping strategies they employ and the extent to which they feel comfortable expressing their identities at work. This article will explore the relationship between organizational cultures and relational coping among LGBT soldiers, examining how different types of environments may impact their experiences.
It is important to understand what relational coping is and why it is relevant for LGBT soldiers. Relational coping refers to the ways in which individuals cope with stress by seeking support from others, whether through socializing, confiding in friends or family members, or engaging in activities together. For LGBT soldiers who may face discrimination or prejudice due to their identities, relational coping can provide a source of strength and comfort, allowing them to connect with like-minded individuals and build resilience against negative experiences.
Not all relational coping strategies are equally effective, and some may actually reinforce stereotypes or perpetuate harmful norms.
Organizational culture plays an important role in determining which types of relational coping strategies are available to LGBT soldiers. Different organizations have varying levels of tolerance towards diverse sexual identities, ranging from outright hostility to full acceptance and celebration. In more accepting environments, LGBT soldiers may be able to openly express themselves without fear of retaliation or stigma, enabling them to engage in healthy relational coping strategies that promote emotional wellbeing and reduce stress. Conversely, in less inclusive settings, LGBT soldiers may feel pressure to conceal their identities or conform to traditional gender roles, leading to increased feelings of isolation and reduced access to support networks. This can result in unhealthy relational coping behaviors such as withdrawal or avoidance, further exacerbating mental health challenges.
The relationship between organizational cultures and relational coping among LGBT soldiers is complex and multifaceted, but it highlights the importance of creating workplaces that value diversity and inclusion. By fostering welcoming environments where LGBT soldiers can freely express themselves and seek support from peers, military organizations can help ensure that they are able to cope effectively with challenges related to their identities while also promoting greater cohesion and resilience within teams.
How do organizational cultures influence relational coping and identity expression among LGBT soldiers?
Organizational culture plays a significant role in shaping an individual's relational coping and identity expression, including for those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). The military is no exception, where heteronormative norms are strongly established, leading many members of these groups to feel pressure to conform to gender and sexual norms and conceal their identities.