Shared Military Identity Enhances Relational Empathy
The concept of relational empathy is based on an individual's ability to understand the emotional state of another person through their interactions with them. It involves the capacity to sense how someone feels, think about their perspective, and respond accordingly. This type of empathy can be especially important in military settings where soldiers must work together to achieve common goals while also maintaining individual identity. A shared military identity can enhance relational empathy by creating a strong bond between team members that allows for greater understanding and collaboration. When soldiers share a common background, experience, and mission, they are more likely to connect with each other on a deeper level and see themselves as part of a larger unit. This can lead to increased trust, loyalty, and communication within the group.
When soldiers have gone through rigorous training and combat together, they develop a deep sense of camaraderie that makes it easier for them to put themselves in each other's shoes and understand one another's needs and desires.
The physical and psychological challenges faced during deployment can create a heightened sense of intimacy and vulnerability among team members, which further strengthens their relational empathy.
Some argue that a shared military identity can also limit relational empathy by creating a sense of exclusivity and separating soldiers from civilians. This can make it difficult for veterans to reintegrate into civilian life and may even contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues.
The impact of a shared military identity on relational empathy is complex and depends on the context and individuals involved.
Shared Military Identity Inhibits Relational Empathy
Although a shared military identity can enhance relational empathy within a group, it can also inhibit empathy towards those outside the military community. Soldiers who have been exposed to intense violence or trauma may struggle to relate to civilians who have not experienced these things. This can lead to feelings of isolation, distrust, and even aggression towards non-military people. The emotional and physical distance between military and civilian populations can further exacerbate this problem, making it harder for soldiers to connect with others outside of their group.
Some argue that a militarized society perpetuates a culture of hypermasculinity and patriarchy that limits empathy towards women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Traditional gender roles and expectations within the military often reinforce rigid ideas about masculinity and femininity, which can make it difficult for men to express vulnerability or emotions and for women and nonbinary individuals to be seen as equals.
Military institutions may prioritize loyalty to the organization over individual relationships, creating an environment where empathetic behaviors are discouraged.
While a shared military identity can promote intimacy among team members, it can also limit empathy towards broader societal groups and contribute to a lack of understanding and acceptance of diverse perspectives.
How does shared military identity enhance or inhibit relational empathy?
The shared military identity can both enhance and inhibit relational empathy depending on several factors such as length of service, rank, type of unit, gender, sexuality, age, race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, political affiliation, etc.