The topic of systemic stigmatization within military institutions has been a source of concern for many years now. This issue is particularly relevant to queer service members who face discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. The effects of this stigma can be far-reaching, impacting not just their personal lives but also their careers and overall wellbeing.
One way that systemic stigmatization affects queer service members' mental health is through isolation. Queer individuals may feel alienated from their peers due to the negative attitudes towards them, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. They may also experience anxiety regarding how others will react if they come out as LGBTQ+. These emotional stressors can take a toll on an individual's psychological health, leading to symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, and even post-traumatic stress disorder.
In addition to mental health issues, systemic stigma can also negatively impact queer service members' social belonging.
They may struggle to find support among their colleagues and superiors, creating tension in the workplace. This can lead to difficulties with teamwork and collaboration, resulting in decreased productivity and job satisfaction.
Queer service members may feel uncomfortable sharing experiences or challenges related to their sexuality or gender expression with fellow service members, creating further isolation and alienation.
Systemic stigmatization can significantly impact queer service members' career trajectories. Discrimination within military institutions can make it harder for them to advance professionally, limiting promotions and opportunities for growth. This discrimination can also result in a lack of trust and respect from supervisors and colleagues, leading to a sense of exclusion and marginalization.
This can create a hostile work environment that makes it difficult for queer service members to thrive and succeed.
The effects of systemic stigma on queer service members are significant and far-reaching. It is crucial for all individuals involved in military institutions to be aware of these impacts and work towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. By addressing this issue head-on, we can ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities and support within our nation's defense forces.
How does systemic stigmatization in military institutions affect the mental health, social belonging, and career trajectories of queer service members?
Systemic stigma has been identified as one of the main barriers for the advancement of LGBTQ+ people within organizations (Griffin & Williams 2017). Military organizations have historically reinforced heteronormativity through policies such as banning gay and bisexual individuals from joining the military until recent years (Bartlett et al. 2018), which is a form of stigmatization based on sexual orientation.