The United States Armed Forces has made significant efforts to promote an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals within its ranks.
Despite these measures, there are still instances where members face exclusion and discrimination based on their identities. This paper seeks to explore how institutional policies on inclusion and discrimination shape relational experiences in military contexts. It does so by analyzing various factors that contribute to these experiences, including social norms, cultural values, organizational structures, and individual attitudes. The analysis demonstrates that while progress has been made towards creating a more diverse and accepting military culture, there is still much work to be done in order to ensure equal opportunities for all service members.
Keywords: Military; Inclusivity; Discrimination; Relationships; Identity; Diversity
Institutional Policies on Inclusion and Discrimination
The U.S. Armed Forces have long maintained strict standards regarding the types of people who can serve in its ranks, particularly with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Until recently, openly gay or lesbian individuals were barred from serving in the military under the policy known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Similarly, transgender individuals were also prohibited from serving until 2016 when this restriction was lifted. Despite these changes, however, many members of the LGBTQ+ community continue to face challenges related to their identities in the military setting.
Social Norms and Cultural Values
Social norms and cultural values play an important role in shaping relational experiences within the military. While some cultures may be more accepting of diversity than others, it is generally expected that soldiers maintain certain codes of conduct that emphasize discipline, conformity, and hierarchy. These expectations can create tension for those who do not fit into these molds, leading to feelings of exclusion and isolation. Moreover, traditional gender roles may also contribute to difficulties in forming relationships between men and women within the military.
Organizational Structures
Organizational structures are another factor that influence relational experiences in the military. Military units tend to be highly hierarchical, which can lead to power dynamics that privilege heterosexual relationships.
Soldiers are often required to spend extended periods of time away from home, which can strain romantic relationships.
The military's focus on combat readiness may prioritize physical prowess over other aspects of personal development, making it difficult for members with diverse identities to find supportive environments.
Individual Attitudes
Individual attitudes towards inclusion and diversity also shape relational experiences in the military. Some service members may hold biases against certain groups based on their perceived threat to military readiness or cultural norms. Others may simply lack exposure to different identities and therefore struggle to understand how they fit into military culture. As a result, LGBTQ+ individuals may experience rejection or microaggressions from their peers, which can damage their sense of belonging and self-esteem.
Institutional policies on inclusion and discrimination play an important role in shaping relational experiences in military contexts. While progress has been made toward creating more inclusive environments, there is still much work to be done to ensure equal opportunities for all service members. By understanding these factors, policymakers and leaders can work to create a more equitable and accepting environment for everyone who serves our country.
How do institutional policies on inclusion and discrimination shape relational experiences in military contexts?
In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on understanding the role of inclusion and diversity in shaping relationships within the military context. Institutional policies that prioritize inclusion and equity have had a significant impact on how people interact with one another, both on a personal level and at the organizational level.