Sexual coercion is defined as unwanted sexual behavior, usually physical contact, that is carried out without consent, often using force or threats to influence someone's decision. It can be experienced differently from one person to another depending on their gender, age, religion, culture, upbringing, education, environment, and many other factors. This research paper will discuss how sexual coercion affects soldiers' trust in their peers, perception of authority, and moral judgement.
Sexual Coercion Experiences
Sexual coercion can occur in various contexts, such as military, workplace, school, home, community, online, etc. In the army, it can take place between fellow soldiers during training exercises, patrols, and missions. Soldiers who have been sexually coerced may experience fear, humiliation, shame, guilt, anger, betrayal, and loss of confidence. These feelings can affect their relationships with others, leading to isolation, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Impact on Trust in Peers
Soldiers who have been subjected to sexual coercion may feel violated, betrayed, and powerless by those they trusted. They may become suspicious of others, even if there is no evidence of any threat. As a result, they might struggle to build healthy relationships with their comrades and colleagues. The trauma caused by sexual coercion can make them less willing to share personal information or ask for help when needed.
Perception of Authority
Experiencing sexual coercion can change soldiers' perception of authority figures. They may view them as untrustworthy, biased, or abusive. Soldiers may lose respect for their leaders, commanders, supervisors, and other people in positions of power. This can lead to conflict within the unit, decreasing morale, and undermining teamwork.
Moral Judgement
The moral judgment of soldiers who experienced sexual coercion is often challenged. They may question their values, beliefs, and principles, which can cause cognitive dissonance and emotional turmoil. It can be difficult to judge others objectively when one has gone through such an experience. It can also create a sense of guilt and self-blame, making it hard to move forward without support.
How do experiences of sexual coercion impact soldiers' trust in peers, perception of authority, and moral judgment?
Sexual coercion can have lasting effects on soldiers' mental health, including their trust in peers, perception of authority, and moral judgment. These effects are due to the trauma and stigma associated with sexual assault and abuse, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame. This can cause soldiers to withdraw from social situations and become isolated, making it difficult for them to form new relationships and trust others.