Sexual activity between soldiers is an age-old phenomenon that has been documented throughout history. In ancient Greece, military commanders would reward their troops with prostitutes after victorious battles to boost morale and promote unity among them. In modern times, however, the discussion surrounding this practice remains controversial, especially when it comes to its potential impact on unit cohesion. Can sexual activity act as a factor in strengthening unit cohesion, and if so, through which psychological mechanisms? This article explores these questions by examining the research literature on the relationship between sexuality and unit cohesion, focusing primarily on studies conducted within military organizations.
Some background on what is meant by "unit cohesion." Unit cohesion refers to the degree of commitment and attachment soldiers feel towards their fellow comrades in arms. It encompasses factors such as trust, shared values, loyalty, mutual support, respect, and interdependence. These bonds are crucial for effective military operations, as they enable units to work together seamlessly and achieve their objectives despite challenging circumstances.
Can sexual activity contribute to unit cohesion? Some scholars argue yes, citing studies that suggest sex can create intimacy and increase feelings of closeness among members of a unit.
One study found that soldiers who had engaged in sex with their teammates reported higher levels of emotional connection and greater willingness to sacrifice themselves for their comrades than those who did not have sexual relationships. Similarly, another study found that couples who were dating or married before being deployed into combat felt more committed to each other than single soldiers. The same was true even after controlling for other factors like age and gender.
Others dispute this view, arguing that sexual activity can lead to distractions and tensions within a unit that undermine cohesion rather than strengthen it. They point out that sexual interactions can be complicated and messy, especially if there are multiple partners involved or if power dynamics come into play. In addition, sexual attraction may lead to favoritism and resentment between soldiers, which could weaken the sense of camaraderie and cooperation necessary for successful missions.
Sexual activity can act as a factor in strengthening unit cohesion by creating feelings of intimacy and commitment among members of a unit.
Its impact depends on many factors, including the specific context, the nature of the relationship, and the personalities involved. While some research suggests that sex can promote unity and trust, others caution against potential negative effects such as jealousy and competition.
Leaders must carefully weigh these factors when deciding whether to allow or discourage sexual activity among their troops.
Can sexual activity act as a factor in strengthening unit cohesion, and if so, through which psychological mechanisms?
The extent to which sexual activity can act as a factor in strengthening unit cohesion is not well-established, although there are certain psychological mechanisms that may contribute to such an outcome. Psychologists suggest that physical intimacy and emotional closeness between members of a group or team can create feelings of belongingness and trust, leading to increased cooperation and commitment to shared goals (Fox et al. , 2019).