There are many reasons why people choose to join the military, including patriotism, love of country, desire for adventure, need for discipline, search for a career path, and more. Many soldiers have no choice but to enlist due to family tradition, economic hardship, low educational level, lack of job opportunities, or criminal records that prevent them from joining civilian occupations. Regardless of the reason, most soldiers face challenges in forming close personal relationships within their units while serving. This is partly due to social hierarchies that shape interpersonal interactions among military personnel. The main types of hierarchies present in the military are the rank hierarchy, the command structure, and the chain of command. These hierarchies create an atmosphere where some people feel they cannot be themselves or form close bonds because they must always defer to authority figures.
Rank hierarchy refers to the system of seniority based on rank, length of service, and merit within each unit.
Lieutenants may outrank privates, sergeants may outrank corporals, and captains may outrank lieutenant colonels. Within this hierarchy, soldiers often feel pressure to act according to their assigned positions rather than as individuals. They may hesitate to open up about personal issues or form intimate friendships with those who are perceived as below them in rank. In addition, the hierarchical system can lead to conflicts between junior officers and experienced NCOs (Non-Commissioned Officers) over control of troops.
Command structures dictate how orders are given and followed by subordinates. Each branch of the military has its own unique way of organizing command structures, but all involve a clear separation of responsibilities and decision-making power. In general, officers make decisions and give orders, while enlisted members carry out instructions. This means that there is little opportunity for genuine collaboration between soldiers at different levels of the hierarchy. It also creates tension when individual preferences conflict with group objectives or when leaders fail to communicate effectively.
The chain of command refers to the sequence of reporting relationships within a unit. This ensures accountability and efficiency, but it can cause communication breakdowns and frustration if orders change frequently or are unclear.
These hierarchies limit interactions among soldiers and create distance between individuals who might otherwise share similar backgrounds, experiences, and interests.
In what ways do social hierarchies within the military affect interpersonal intimacy?
According to research studies conducted by various scholars, it can be said that social hierarchies within the military have a significant impact on interpersonal intimacy among soldiers. The chain of command structure in any army creates an unequal power dynamic between the higher-ranked officers and lower-ranked soldiers. This inequality may lead to fear and distrust, which can make it difficult for soldiers to develop close personal relationships with their peers.