The term "LGBT" refers to individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, nonbinary, etc., or belong to another community that is not heterosexually cisgender. These communities are often discriminated against, marginalized, and ostracized for their identities and lifestyles, which can make it difficult for them to find support and acceptance in society. This also applies to those who wish to serve in the military. While the US Military has made strides towards equality, there are still many barriers preventing LGBT individuals from serving openly.
One major issue facing LGBT service members is the lack of family recognition and benefits. The current policy states that same-sex partners must be married to receive certain benefits, but marriage is not an option for all couples due to state laws prohibiting same-sex marriages. This creates relational tension between LGBT service members and their partners, as they may feel isolated and unsupported.
Even if they are able to marry, they may face challenges related to adoption, healthcare, housing, and more.
Another issue is the cultural environment within the military itself. Many people within the military hold traditional views about gender roles and sexuality, which can create a hostile atmosphere for LGBT service members. They may experience harassment, bullying, and discrimination based on their identity, making it difficult to form strong relationships with colleagues and superiors. This relational tension can lead to emotional distress and isolation, affecting job performance and overall wellbeing.
Institutional policies can create additional stressors for LGBT partnerships.
Some units require service members to live together in shared quarters, which can be problematic for LGBT couples who do not meet traditional norms of heterosexuality. In addition, some policies limit access to reproductive technology or other resources, further excluding those who do not fit into the "traditional" mold. These policies contribute to the feeling of being outcasted from society and the military community, creating tension and anxiety for LGBT service members.
Societal and institutional norms have created significant barriers for LGBT individuals seeking to serve openly in the US Military. The lack of family recognition, cultural climate, and restrictive policies all contribute to relational tensions that can negatively impact mental health, job performance, and overall quality of life. It's crucial for these issues to be addressed to ensure equal opportunity and support for all service members, regardless of their identities.
In what ways do societal and institutional norms create relational tension in LGBT military partnerships?
Societal and institutional norms can create relational tension in LGBT military partnerships by limiting their opportunities for legal recognition of their relationships, affecting their ability to access health care benefits, denying them equal treatment within the military, and creating barriers to public acceptance. These factors contribute to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and vulnerability for many members of the LGBT community who serve in the military.