Peer Support
LGBT Soldiers are individuals who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. They face unique challenges within military culture due to their identities. One challenge is that they often experience relational strain from family members or fellow service members who do not accept them for who they are. This can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, and even suicide.
Peer support can be an effective way to buffer against these negative emotions.
Peer support refers to social networks that provide emotional, practical, and informational assistance to others facing similar struggles. In the context of LGBT soldiers, this means connecting with fellow LGBT service members for support. Research has found that such support reduces symptoms of mental illness and increases self-esteem among LGBT individuals.
It also helps build resilience and coping skills in times of stress.
Peer support groups can take many forms, including online communities, in-person meetings, and mentorship programs.
Organizations like OutServe and the Human Rights Campaign offer resources and events specifically for LGBT service members. These groups allow individuals to connect with each other, share experiences, and receive guidance on navigating military life.
One study found that LGBT soldiers who received peer support were more likely to report higher levels of psychological well-being compared to those without access to such support. Another study showed that peer support was associated with lower rates of depressive symptoms and greater life satisfaction.
Peer support appears to be a promising intervention for reducing relational strain in LGBT soldiers.
Organizational Support
Organizational support refers to policies and practices within an organization that promote inclusivity and acceptance of diverse identities. This includes things like anti-discrimination policies, training on LGBT issues, and diversity initiatives. When organizations create safe spaces for LGBT soldiers, they reduce feelings of isolation and increase positive outcomes.
Research suggests that organizational support is particularly effective at buffering against relational strain because it addresses broader cultural factors. It sends a message that the military values all its members, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This creates a sense of belonging and reduces stigma surrounding LGBT service members.
The US Military has made significant strides towards inclusion in recent years. In 2016, it lifted the ban on transgender troops serving openly, and in 2020, it issued new guidelines on supporting non-binary soldiers. Such measures have led to increased job satisfaction among LGBT troops. One survey found that nearly half of respondents felt comfortable being themselves at work, while another found that most believed their organization supported them as individuals.
The Department of Defense has also implemented mandatory training on LGBT topics, including how to prevent discrimination and harassment. This helps educate service members about the unique challenges faced by LGBT soldiers and promotes understanding and respect.
Many bases now offer specific programs designed to support LGBT service members, such as family readiness groups and mentorship programs.
Peer and organizational support are two key strategies for reducing relational strain among LGBT soldiers. Peer support provides emotional, practical, and informational assistance through social networks, while organizational support creates safe spaces and policies that promote inclusivity. Both types of support appear to be effective at improving mental health outcomes and building resilience. By implementing these practices, the military can create a more welcoming environment for all service members and reduce negative experiences associated with sexual and gender minority identities.
Which peer and organizational support practices most effectively buffer against relational strain in LGBT soldiers?
Relational strains are often caused by internalized homophobia, heterosexism, and discrimination (Munoz, 2017). Soldiers can experience strains with their families, partners, peers, friends, coworkers, commanders, subordinates, and even strangers due to prejudice and negative attitudes towards their sexuality (Munoz, 2017; Yoder & Cochran, 2015).