Society expects men to be masculine and women to be feminine. This means that they are expected to behave in certain ways that conform to their assigned gender.
This does not always apply to everyone who identifies as male or female.
Some people may identify as transgender or non-binary, which challenges society's expectations of what it means to be male or female. These individuals may experience discrimination, harassment, and violence because of their identity. Some LGBT service members also challenge societal expectations of gender and sexuality. They may face discrimination and harassment from others in the military because of their identity. As a result, they may have difficulty expressing themselves freely and authentically.
The lived experiences of LGBT service members are unique and can vary depending on their individual circumstances. Many factors influence how they choose to self-express, including their background, upbringing, culture, and religion.
Many LGBT service members report feeling pressure to conform to societal expectations of gender and sexuality.
They may feel like they must hide their true selves to avoid being ostracized or dismissed by peers. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. In addition, some LGBT service members may fear coming out for fear of losing their jobs or friends. This can cause them to live double lives, creating stress and anxiety.
There are ways that LGBT service members can overcome these obstacles. One way is by finding supportive communities where they can be their authentic selves without judgment. Another way is by educating others about LGBT issues and advocating for change within the military.
LGBT service members can seek therapy or counseling to help them process their experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms. With time and effort, it is possible for LGBT service members to find acceptance and happiness in the military.
Additional resources:
* Article 1(https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/military-service-members-who-are-lgbtq-share-how-they-overcome-challenges-n896476)
* Article 2(https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/59kxwbz/life-in-the-closet-the-unique-challenges-of-being-an-openly-transgender-soldier)
How do societal expectations of gender and sexuality affect the lived experiences and self-expression of LGBT service members?
Gender and sexuality are social constructs that have been shaped by cultures, religions, and other institutions over time. As such, they play a role in how individuals express themselves and interact with others in their environment. The military is no exception to this rule, as it has its own set of norms and values related to masculinity, femininity, heterosexuality, and homosexuality.