The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact that suppression of individual identity has on the psychological well-being of individuals who serve in the military. It will explore how this suppression can lead to feelings of alienation, loss of self-esteem, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. Through an analysis of existing research on the subject, it will provide insights into why this phenomenon occurs and what steps can be taken to mitigate its negative effects.
As a member of the military, one must conform to strict norms and rules that are designed to promote cohesion and effectiveness within the unit. These norms often require suppressing personal beliefs, values, and preferences in order to align oneself with those of the larger group. This process can be emotionally and psychologically taxing, as individuals may feel pressure to hide parts of themselves that they would otherwise express freely.
This can result in feelings of isolation, loneliness, and alienation from both their peers and their own sense of self.
Research has shown that suppression of identity can have significant psychological consequences, including decreased self-esteem and increased risk for mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. One study found that veterans who had experienced greater levels of identity suppression were more likely to report symptoms of PTSD than those who did not (Simmons & Simmons, 2014). Another study found that soldiers who felt more stigma about being gay or lesbian reported higher levels of depression than those who did not experience this stigma (Lee & Sharp, 2017).
There are several factors that contribute to these negative outcomes. Firstly, individuals who suppress their identities may feel a sense of shame or guilt about doing so, which can lead to lowered self-esteem and decreased confidence in their abilities. Secondly, suppressing certain aspects of one's identity can create a sense of dissonance between how an individual views themself and how others view them, leading to confusion and conflict.
Prolonged exposure to stressors associated with military service, such as combat trauma or deployment, can exacerbate these effects by further eroding an individual's sense of self.
There are steps that can be taken to mitigate the negative impact of identity suppression. One approach is to provide opportunities for expression within the military context, such as allowing for unit-level celebrations of different cultures or beliefs. Another approach is to offer support services for individuals experiencing difficulty integrating back into civilian life after service, such as counseling or reintegration programs.
Promoting open communication within units about personal experiences can help reduce the stigma associated with expressing unique identities.
The psychological consequences of suppressing identity to conform to military norms can be significant and long-lasting.
There are ways to address these issues through targeted interventions aimed at supporting individuals' identities and helping them integrate successfully back into civilian life. By recognizing the importance of identity and providing meaningful outlets for its expression, we can ensure that our soldiers are able to thrive both during and after their time in uniform.
What are the psychological consequences of suppressing personal identity to conform to military norms?
The suppression of personal identity is a common phenomenon among members of the military. The primary goal of joining the army is often to serve one's country and protect its citizens from external threats, but many individuals find themselves having to compromise their individuality for the good of the group. This can lead to several psychological consequences that affect not only the individual but also society as a whole.