Sexual coercion is defined as an unwanted sexual act that occurs through force, threat, deception, manipulation, or abuse of power. It can range from verbal pressure to physical assault and may involve multiple people. Sexual coercion has been recognized as a form of trauma experienced by soldiers during war time due to its devastating impact on their mental health. This paper will examine the long-term psychosocial effects of sexual coercion on a soldier's sense of agency, autonomy, and ethical responsibility.
Sense of Agency
The concept of agency refers to one's ability to make independent decisions and act according to personal values. Soldiers who have been subjected to sexual coercation often experience feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame, which can undermine their sense of agency. They may feel like they lack control over their own bodies and are unable to assert themselves in interpersonal situations. This can lead to difficulties in forming trusting relationships and establishing boundaries, both romantic and otherwise.
Victims of sexual coercion may struggle with feelings of vulnerability and fear, which further compromise their sense of agency.
Autonomy
Autonomy is closely linked to agency; it involves having the freedom to choose one's path and actions without external interference. Sexual coercion can damage a soldier's sense of autonomy by limiting their options for responding to sexual advances or demands. Victims may feel pressured to comply out of fear or obligation rather than choice. This can lead to a loss of confidence and self-respect, as well as difficulty in setting and enforcing boundaries in future relationships.
Ethical Responsibility
Ethical responsibility involves making moral judgments and acting accordingly. Soldiers who have experienced sexual coercion may question their own morality and values, leading to a feeling of being "broken" or damaged. This can manifest in anxiety, depression, or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can also cause them to lose faith in institutions such as the military or government, leading to cynicism and distrust of authority figures. The long-term psychosocial effects of sexual coercion on ethical responsibility can be devastating and far-reaching.
Sexual coercion has profound and lasting impacts on a soldier's sense of agency, autonomy, and ethical responsibility. Its long-term consequences include difficulties in forming healthy relationships, reduced self-esteem, and a heightened risk of PTSD. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive support systems that provide victims with safe spaces for healing and recovery, while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
What are the long-term psychosocial effects of sexual coercion on a soldier's sense of agency, autonomy, and ethical responsibility?
Sexual coercion can have a range of long-term psychosocial effects on a soldier's sense of agency, autonomy, and ethical responsibility, including but not limited to self-doubt, powerlessness, guilt, anxiety, depression, and difficulty trusting others.