Sexual coercion is a form of nonconsensual sexual activity that can have profound effects on a soldier's psychological wellbeing. It can leave them feeling powerless and unable to assert themselves or trust their own judgment in various aspects of their lives. Sexual coercion occurs when someone uses force, threats, manipulation, or pressure to engage in unwanted sexual behavior. This type of trauma can impact soldiers both during their time in service and after returning home.
One way that sexual coercion affects a soldier's sense of agency, control, and self-efficacy is through the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, hypervigilance, and flashbacks related to a traumatic event. Soldiers who experience sexual coercation may develop PTSD symptoms related to their experiences, making it difficult for them to feel empowered or confident in their abilities. They may become fearful of interacting socially, difficulty forming relationships, and struggle with day-to-day activities.
In addition to PTSD, sexual coercion can also lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health issues. These conditions further erode a soldier's sense of autonomy and ability to make decisions independently. Depression can cause feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, while anxiety makes it hard for people to take risks or advocate for themselves. Substance abuse can impair decision-making skills and interfere with communication. All of these factors contribute to a diminished sense of personal power and control over one's life.
Sexual coercion can also undermine a soldier's physical safety. People who have been sexually assaulted are more likely to suffer from injuries and illness due to increased exposure to infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and other STDs. They may also be less able to protect themselves in dangerous situations, leading to higher rates of violence and injury. This can limit a soldier's sense of self-reliance and independence, making them feel like they need others to take care of them.
Soldiers may experience challenges in their personal relationships after experiencing sexual coercion. Victims often withdraw emotionally, avoid intimacy, and struggle to trust others. This can strain their relationships with partners, friends, family members, and colleagues. It can also create difficulties navigating romantic or sexual encounters in civilian life, leading to social isolation and loneliness.
Sexual coercion can impact a soldier's job performance. Victims may struggle to focus on work tasks, experience difficulty interacting with supervisors and coworkers, or perform poorly under pressure. This can lead to lower productivity, missed opportunities, and even termination from service. These experiences can make it difficult for victims to assert themselves at work and believe in their abilities.
Sexual coercion has far-reaching effects on a soldier's sense of agency, control, and self-efficacy both during and after their time in the military. It can cause long-term mental health issues, physical vulnerabilities, relationship struggles, and career setbacks that diminish confidence and autonomy. By raising awareness about this issue, we can help soldiers receive the support they need to heal and regain control over their lives.
How do experiences of sexual coercion affect a soldier's sense of agency, control, and self-efficacy in both service and civilian life?
Sexual coercion can lead to trauma and PTSD symptoms that may disrupt a soldier's ability to make decisions independently and feel safe in social situations. It can also undermine their confidence in their skills and abilities, leading to lower levels of agency and self-efficacy.