In the army, soldiers are required to obey strict rules and regulations that govern their behavior both on and off duty. One aspect of this is the prohibition of sexual activity while deployed or stationed abroad.
Human beings are sexual beings, and it can be difficult for some soldiers to suppress these desires for extended periods of time. This raises the question: how do soldiers negotiate their sexual curiosity and desire within the constraints of military discipline?
Desire and Suppression
The first challenge that soldiers face is simply trying to ignore their sexual feelings altogether. While deployed, soldiers may find themselves surrounded by attractive people but unable to act upon their desires due to the risk of getting caught.
They may feel shame or guilt about pursuing sexual encounters during times when they are supposed to be focused solely on their mission. As a result, many soldiers try to repress their sexuality completely, focusing instead on training, tactics, and other aspects of military life.
Coping Mechanisms
Repression is rarely effective in the long term, so soldiers have developed various coping mechanisms to deal with their sexual urges without breaking the rules.
Some soldiers might engage in masturbation or solo sex acts while alone in their barracks or tents. Others might use pornography or chat rooms as an outlet for their fantasies. Still, others may seek comfort from close friends or fellow soldiers who share similar interests. It's important to note that these behaviors are usually kept secret from superiors and peers, as open discussion of such topics could lead to disciplinary action.
Risks and Consequences
Despite efforts to suppress their desires, there are always risks associated with sexual activity outside of marriage. Soldiers who engage in affairs can face serious consequences like dishonorable discharge, loss of benefits, and even jail time. These penalties can make it difficult for soldiers to get jobs after leaving the service, especially if they carry the stigma of being "sexually promiscuous." Moreover, sexually transmitted diseases can spread quickly within a tight-knit group of people living together.
Intimacy and Connection
Soldiers must find ways to satisfy their emotional needs alongside their physical ones. This means building connections with fellow soldiers based on trust, loyalty, and mutual support rather than simply satisfying sexual desire. In times of stress or danger, these bonds become crucial for maintaining morale and keeping up spirits. Some soldiers even form romantic relationships despite the challenges of deployments and long absences apart. While these relationships may not be sanctioned by military regulations, they can provide much-needed emotional fulfillment during a soldier's career.
How do soldiers negotiate sexual curiosity and desire within the constraints of military discipline?
Soldiers have various ways of managing their sexual desires while under military discipline. Some soldiers may choose to suppress their sexual urges completely by avoiding romantic relationships, engaging in self-control techniques such as meditation or exercise, or seeking professional help to manage sexual desires. Others may participate in casual sex with fellow soldiers, but keep it secret from their superiors out of fear of punishment.