Long-Term Psychological and Moral Consequences of Sexual Coercion in Deployed Personnel
The phenomenon of sexual coercion is not uncommon among deployed personnel. It can take many forms, from unwanted touching to rape and even threats. Some researchers believe that it can have significant long-term psychological and moral consequences for victims. In this article, we will discuss what those consequences might be and how they may manifest themselves in different contexts.
One of the most obvious effects of sexual coercion is trauma. Victims often feel ashamed, embarrassed, or guilty about what happened, which can lead to depression and anxiety. They may avoid thinking about the incident or talking about it with others. This can make them isolated and lonely, leading to further distress. In some cases, the victim may try to suppress their feelings by using drugs or alcohol, which can cause additional problems.
Another consequence of sexual coercion is difficulty trusting other people. Victims may become wary of strangers or fearful of intimacy. They may find it hard to form close relationships, which can impact their personal lives as well as their work life. This can also lead to social isolation and loneliness.
Victims of sexual coercion may struggle with self-esteem. They may question their own worthiness and value, feeling like they were somehow responsible for what happened. This can lead to low self-confidence and a lack of motivation. It can also cause shame and guilt, making it difficult to move on from the experience.
Victims of sexual coercion may experience changes in their behavior. They may become more aggressive or hostile towards others, which can create tension in their relationships. They may also engage in risky behaviors, such as excessive drinking or drug use. These behaviors can have negative consequences in their own right, leading to legal trouble or job loss.
Sexual coercion can have significant long-term psychological and moral consequences that should not be ignored. While many deployed personnel will experience these effects in different ways, it is important for everyone involved to recognize and address them promptly. With proper support and treatment, victims can recover from this traumatic experience and live healthy, fulfilling lives.
What are the long-term psychological and moral consequences of sexual coercion in deployed personnel?
Sexual coercion has been described as an act where someone uses force, threats, intimidation, manipulation, or pressure to persuade another individual into engaging in unwanted sexual acts. This can be experienced by both genders and is seen as one of the most common forms of gender-based violence (Lalonde et al. , 2016).