Soldiers are trained to kill and participate in warfare. They must obey orders and uphold military discipline. In combat situations, they may be forced to make decisions that go against their moral beliefs or principles.
They might have to fire on civilians or engage in torture. These actions can cause moral injury - an emotional response caused by experiencing or witnessing something morally wrong. This emotional distress is often accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and anger. How do soldiers reconcile this experience with their personal relational and sexual identities?
Some soldiers experience moral injury when they violate their own moral code or value system. This can cause them to question their sense of self-worth and identity. They may feel like they don't deserve love or affection from others. To cope, some soldiers turn to substance abuse, violence, or other harmful behaviors. Others try to suppress these feelings and move on as if nothing happened.
Unresolved moral injuries can lead to long-term mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and suicide.
To resolve moral injury, soldiers must seek support from peers, family members, or professionals. They need to process their experiences and rebuild their sense of self. This can involve talking about what happened, reflecting on their values, and seeking forgiveness. It's also important for soldiers to develop new coping strategies and find meaning in life outside of the military. Relationships can play a crucial role in this process, providing a safe space for expression and connection.
For many soldiers, moral injury can impact their sexuality and intimacy. They may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, or dissociation during physical or emotional closeness. This can affect their ability to form lasting relationships and feel comfortable with themselves sexually. Many veterans report difficulty expressing emotions, difficulty being vulnerable, and difficulty connecting emotionally with partners. Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.
Moral injury is a complex issue that affects all aspects of a soldier's life. Reconciling it requires a holistic approach that addresses personal, relational, and sexual identity. With proper support and treatment, soldiers can heal and live fulfilling lives.
How do soldiers reconcile the experience of moral injury or ethical conflict with personal relational and sexual identity?
The experiences of moral injury or ethical conflict can be particularly challenging for individuals who are also trying to navigate their personal relationships and sexual identities. Reconciling these different areas of one's life can require significant self-reflection and introspection, as well as support from trusted friends, family members, and mental health professionals.