Sexual coercion is a type of abuse that involves using force, manipulation, or pressure to have sexual intercourse with someone against their will. It can be physical or verbal and can happen online or offline. Sexual coercion has negative short-term consequences such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. But what are the long-term effects? Can it affect moral reasoning, social functioning, and post-service adjustment? This article explores these three areas to answer this question.
Moral Reasoning
Moral reasoning refers to one's ability to judge whether an action is right or wrong based on personal values, ethics, and morals. When someone experiences sexual coercion, they may feel shame, guilt, and self-blame for not resisting enough. This can lead to confusion about what constitutes acceptable behavior and affect how they make decisions regarding future relationships. They may also question their beliefs and feelings about sex and intimacy, leading to cognitive dissonance. Long-term exposure to sexual coercion can alter someone's moral compass, making them more likely to engage in unethical behaviors in other aspects of life.
Social Functioning
Social functioning refers to how well a person interacts with others socially and emotionally. After experiencing sexual coercion, people may isolate themselves from friends, family, and colleagues due to embarrassment or fear of judgment. They may withdraw from activities that involve intimacy or close contact with others, creating loneliness and alienation. Others may avoid them because they see them as damaged goods or suspect abuse. These factors can impair work performance, friendships, and romantic relationships.
Post-Service Adjustment
Post-service adjustment refers to the challenges faced after leaving military service related to health, employment, education, housing, finances, and mental health. Sexual coercation victims are at higher risk for developing PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidality. These issues can interfere with daily functioning and create financial hardship. Military culture places high value on loyalty, honor, and duty, which can make it difficult to report incidents and seek help. Victims often feel ashamed, isolated, and powerless, making recovery even harder.
What are the long-term effects of sexual coercion on moral reasoning, social functioning, and post-service adjustment?
Sexual coercion is a serious issue that has been increasingly studied by researchers in recent years. According to studies, victims of sexual coercion may experience several long-term effects on their moral reasoning, social functioning, and post-service adjustment. Moral reasoning refers to how individuals evaluate right and wrong actions based on personal values, ethics, and principles.