The following aspects of gendered expectation within military culture can influence the expression of intimacy between members of the opposite gender:
1. Traditional social roles - Gender roles in military culture dictate that men are supposed to be masculine and tough while women should be feminine and submissive. This means that men are expected to be physically strong and aggressive while women are expected to be nurturing and supportive. These expectations can create barriers for intimate relationships, as they may make it difficult for individuals to express their true emotions and desires.
2. Hierarchy and rank - Military hierarchy places one person above another based on their position in the chain of command. This can lead to power dynamics that can impact intimate relationships. Men who hold higher ranks may feel entitled to more intimate behavior from women, which could lead to feelings of resentment and discomfort. Women may also feel pressure to conform to traditional gender norms in order to maintain their position within the hierarchy.
3. Emotional suppression - Military culture often values stoicism and emotional suppression, which can make it difficult for individuals to express themselves emotionally or sexually. This can result in a lack of connection and intimacy between partners. It can also lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication when trying to communicate needs and desires.
4. Sexual objectification - In some cases, there is an expectation that sexual objectification is acceptable within military culture. This can lead to a sense of entitlement and a lack of respect for others' boundaries. It can also create a climate where intimacy becomes secondary to physical gratification.
5. Mental health stigma - Mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among military personnel, but mental health stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help. This can lead to relationship problems due to difficulty communicating effectively and connecting with others.
6. Isolation - Military life can be isolating, which can make it difficult to develop and maintain close relationships outside of the military community. This can contribute to a sense of loneliness and distance, making it harder to find intimacy.
Gendered expectations within military culture can have a significant impact on expressions of intimacy. The social roles, power dynamics, emotional suppression, sexual objectification, mental health stigma, and isolation all play a role in creating barriers to intimacy. It is important for those in military relationships to acknowledge these factors and work together to overcome them in order to build stronger, more fulfilling connections.
How do gendered expectations within military culture influence expressions of intimacy?
Expectations regarding masculinity and femininity may affect how individuals express their intimate feelings in the military. Research suggests that men are expected to be stoic, unemotional, and independent, while women are expected to show emotion and care for others (Harris & Fiske, 2016). These gendered expectations can lead to difficulties with expressing love, gratitude, or other positive emotions between romantic partners in the military context.