Sexual coercion refers to unwanted sexual activities performed against one's will under the threat of force, power, or deception. Such acts can happen even if physical violence is absent, but there exists the fear that it may occur at any time. During service, soldiers experience various forms of abuse and stressors that may cause them to become susceptible to sexual assault. These incidents can influence their identities, self-worth, and interpersonal trust, resulting in long-lasting effects.
The identity of a soldier consists of many factors such as beliefs, values, attitudes, and emotions. When they are forced into a situation where they cannot defend themselves from sexual harassment, they may feel like they have lost control over their lives and sense of safety. This may lead to feelings of shame, guilt, embarrassment, and helplessness which may affect how they see themselves and interact with others.
Victims may question their worthiness, attractiveness, or ability to protect themselves from future attacks. They may also develop low self-esteem and lack confidence in their capabilities as soldiers. This can impact their performance in combat situations and relationships with other troops.
Victims often blame themselves for what happened and struggle with feelings of responsibility for the incident. As a result, they might avoid seeking help or support due to fear of judgement or stigma. The resulting isolation can harm their mental health and prevent them from forming close bonds with fellow soldiers who could offer comfort or understanding.
Sexual coercion may also impair trust between soldiers and their colleagues or commanders. Victims may be reluctant to share information about their experiences out of fear of repercussions or being perceived as weak. They may hesitate to rely on those around them for assistance or advice regarding personal issues, creating tension within units and damaging team cohesion. Moreover, this lack of open communication can make it difficult for military leaders to identify potential risks and take steps towards preventing assaults in the future.
Sexual coercion during service can significantly alter a soldier's identity, self-worth, and interpersonal trust. It is crucial that the military provides comprehensive resources to address these challenges and promote healing and recovery among survivors.
Efforts should be made to foster an environment where soldiers feel comfortable reporting incidents without fear of retaliation so that appropriate action can be taken against perpetrators.
How do experiences of sexual coercion during service influence a soldier's sense of identity, self-worth, and interpersonal trust?
Experiences of sexual coercion can have profound effects on a soldier's identity, self-worth, and interpersonal trust. Soldiers may feel ashamed, guilt-ridden, and confused about their experiences, leading to feelings of betrayal, distrust, and isolation.