Sexual coercion is defined as unwanted sexual activity that occurs when one person uses pressure, manipulation, or force to get another person to engage in sexual contact against their will. This can include verbal or physical threats, emotional blackmail, or other forms of abuse that undermine a victim's ability to consent to sex. Service members who experience sexual coercion may have difficulty recognizing it for what it is and understanding its impact, but research suggests that it can have significant effects on self-esteem and identity development.
Self-esteem refers to an individual's overall sense of worthiness, competence, and value. It plays a crucial role in shaping how people see themselves and interact with others. When someone experiences sexual coercion, they may feel ashamed, guilty, embarrassed, or powerless. They may question their own judgement, blame themselves for the incident, or doubt their own perceptions of reality. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and low self-confidence, which can negatively affect their daily lives. Victims may also struggle with body image issues, trauma symptoms, and relationship difficulties.
In addition to damaging self-esteem, sexual coercion can also disrupt identity formation among service members. Sexuality is a core aspect of identity, and experiencing unwanted sexual activity can make it difficult for victims to define themselves as sexual beings. They may feel confused about their desires, boundaries, and preferences, leading to confusion, conflict, and discomfort. This can make it hard for them to build healthy relationships, explore their sexuality, or establish a positive sense of self.
Sexual coercion can create a power imbalance between victims and perpetrators, undermining trust, intimacy, and communication within relationships. Victims may avoid sharing their experience with partners or seeking help due to fear of judgment, blame, or rejection. They may become isolated, withdraw from social connections, or engage in risky behaviors to cope with the aftermath. This can further damage their mental health and interfere with their ability to form meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and consent.
To address the impact of sexual coercion on self-esteem and identity development, military organizations should provide education and support to service members at risk. Training programs that emphasize healthy communication, boundary setting, and bystander intervention can empower individuals to recognize coercion and seek help if needed. Counseling services that specialize in sexual assault and abuse can offer victims a safe space to process their experiences and develop coping strategies.
Leaders must model healthy behavior and set clear standards for acceptable conduct to prevent coercion and foster a culture of respect and accountability.
How does sexual coercion influence self-esteem and identity development among service members?
Sexual coercion can have various effects on the self-esteem and identity development of military personnel, ranging from feelings of shame, guilt, and powerlessness to increased risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.