Sexuality is an integral part of human life that has been suppressed since ancient times for various reasons. The act of suppressing sexuality can cause detrimental psychological and sociological effects on individuals who have been forced to repress their natural inclination towards sexual pleasure and intimacy. Sexual suppression, specifically within hierarchical military systems, has led to several problems among individuals who follow strict codes of conduct. The military system requires its personnel to uphold discipline and follow rigid rules of behavior, which often involve abstinence from sexual activity outside marriage.
This rule leads to negative consequences such as increased stress levels, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, suicide attempts, and even homicide in some cases.
The military's rigorous training regimen also involves physical training and combat drills that require maximum focus and attention. Therefore, soldiers are prohibited from engaging in sexually stimulating activities, including masturbation or indulging in pornography. This restriction can lead to frustration and irritability, resulting in decreased productivity and motivation. Soldiers may feel guilty about their natural desires and develop a sense of shame due to cultural norms and values.
Males are expected to be 'masculine' and restrain themselves from expressing any form of femininity, while females must avoid anything related to masculinity. Such gender binaries create feelings of guilt and self-doubt among soldiers who do not fit into these categories.
The lack of sexual expression can lead to heightened aggression, hostility, and violence. Some studies suggest that soldiers who cannot satisfy their sexual needs through legal means may resort to illegal acts like rape and murder. They might view women as objects for gratification rather than human beings with emotions and rights. Sexual suppression can result in sexual harassment and assault on female colleagues by males who have been denied outlets for their sexual desires. The lack of intimacy within hierarchical systems can cause loneliness and isolation, leading to increased risk-taking behavior.
Soldiers who are unable to find partners may turn to risky behaviors such as gambling, drug abuse, or alcohol consumption.
Soldiers experiencing sexual suppression often experience difficulty forming meaningful relationships outside the military system. Their social interactions become limited to other soldiers who share similar experiences. As a result, they struggle to connect emotionally with civilians who do not understand their worldview. This disconnect can make it challenging for them to adjust to civilian life after retirement.
Some veterans suffer from PTSD symptoms due to the traumatic experiences they encounter during combat. Sexual suppression exacerbates this condition by making them feel isolated and detached from others.
The psychological effects of sexual suppression can also manifest physically. Soldiers' bodies undergo intense physical training that requires high levels of endurance and strength.
When they cannot release tension through sex, their bodies suffer from stress and fatigue, which negatively impacts their performance. Soldiers who fail to meet physical standards face disciplinary action, including punishment and possible termination. Therefore, they must maintain strict control over their sexual impulses, leading to additional anxiety and frustration.
The psychosocial effects of sexual suppression in hierarchical military systems are vast and far-reaching. It leads to increased stress, depression, guilt, aggression, violence, loneliness, isolation, risk-taking, difficulty connecting with others, PTSD symptoms, and even death. Therefore, addressing these issues is essential for the wellbeing of soldiers and society as a whole.
What are the psychosocial effects of sexual suppression in hierarchical military systems?
Sexual suppression in militaries can have significant negative psychosocial impacts on soldiers, including increased feelings of anxiety, depression, isolation, and alienation. These feelings can lead to decreased morale, motivation, and performance within the military unit. Additionally, sexual suppression can create a culture where sexual harassment and assault is more common, as soldiers may feel like they cannot openly express their sexuality or boundaries with peers.