In the context of war, it is easy to see how one's sense of identity can be affected by their environment. Soldiers are often placed in situations where they must put aside their personal beliefs and values to follow orders. This can lead them to do things they would never normally do if they were civilians.
Even when faced with difficult situations, there is often still an underlying desire for acceptance or belonging among those who serve. How does this desire influence soldiers' tolerance of behavior that contradicts their values?
One way this manifests itself is through groupthink. In order to fit in with their unit, soldiers may be more likely to go along with activities or behaviors that go against their personal code of ethics.
If a soldier sees another member of their team engaging in sexual misconduct or violence towards noncombatants, they may be hesitant to speak up because they don't want to rock the boat or risk being ostracized. They may also feel pressure to participate in these activities themselves to prove their loyalty to the group. This can lead to some discomforting situations, but it also allows for greater cohesion within the unit. The need to belong can override a person's moral compass.
Another factor is that soldiers may feel like they have little choice but to conform to certain expectations. There is always the fear of being labeled as a "coward" or "weakling" if they refuse to take part in questionable behavior. This can create a culture of silence and complicity where everyone looks the other way rather than speaking out about what is wrong. Even though soldiers are trained to act honorably and uphold high standards, they may find themselves in situations where these principles conflict with the reality of war. It can become very difficult to know how to navigate these conflicting forces.
There is often an emphasis on camaraderie in military units. Soldiers will do whatever it takes to protect their fellow fighters, even if it means doing things that violate their own beliefs. This can include covering up mistakes made by others or taking responsibility for them. It becomes more important to maintain the morale of the group than to adhere to strict codes of conduct. This mentality can extend beyond the battlefield into civilian life as well, leading to problems with relationships and trust.
The desire for acceptance among soldiers can be both helpful and harmful. On one hand, it allows them to work together towards common goals despite differences. On the other hand, it can lead to unethical behavior and a lack of accountability. It is important for soldiers to recognize when they are crossing lines and speak up when necessary, even at the risk of losing social capital within their unit. By doing so, they can help ensure that ethical standards are maintained and no one is left behind.
How does the desire for acceptance or belonging influence soldiers' tolerance of behavior that contradicts their values?
The desire for acceptance or belonging among soldiers can have an impact on their willingness to tolerate behaviors that go against their personal beliefs or values. When soldiers feel a strong need for acceptance within their military unit, they may be more likely to conform to group norms and expectations even if those norms conflict with their individual values.