Military Sexual Trauma
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- What is Military Sexual Trauma?
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is defined as sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurred while the veteran was in the military. (NSVRC, 2020).Sexual assault is intentional sexual contact characterized by: Abuse of authorityIntimidationThreatsUse of force
- "On average, over 3000 reports of sexual assault are made in the military annually with majority victims identifying someone in their chain of command as the offender" (SAPRO, n.d.)What are the factors causing this?
- Why Focus on Sexual Harassment in the Military Workplace?
- "Sexual harassment is a leading factor affecting the military climate on sexual assault (SAPRO, n.d.)"
- I wish he'd stop hitting on me. I already told him I'm not interested...
- Is she okay? What is he doing?
- Verbal Harassment Scenario
- Verbal Factors: Derogatory comments or slurs, suggestive or insulting sounds, comments about female anatomy or clothing
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- Guys, cut out all that gawking and catcalling!
- You enjoying the view from behind, man? Girl, you looking good in that skirt!
- I think I saw him touch her inappropriately at the meeting. I want to report it but I don't want to jeopardize my career.
- These men are the worst! I don't think I can work like this anymore.
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) also includes any sexual activity where someone is involved against his or her will — he or she might be threatened to comply pressured into sexual activities (NSVRC, 2020). For example, implying faster promotions or better treatment in exchange for sexual favors. We will explore scenarios in greater detail next.
- Written/Physical Harassment Scenarios
- Why did I sign up for this?
- Get back to the barracks now, private or you can kiss your promotion goodbye!
- I can't believe I allowed him to do this to me!
- Sexual harassment is characterized by unwelcome sexual behavior that is offensive, humiliating, or intimidating. Examples include unwanted sexual touching or grabbing; threatening, offensive remarks about a person's body or sexual activities; and/or threatening unwelcome sexual advances. Sexual harassment can be visual, verbal, or physical in nature.
- Effects of Sexual Military Trauma in Workplace
- Sexual Assault Victim's Initial ResponsesDisbelief/DenialConfusionMinimizing/DoubtingAvoidance/WithdrawnHurt/Angry/BetrayedThinking about quitting your job often because of the issue.Staying away from certain places in the workplace out of fear of seeing perpetrators.Participating less in group meetings or skipping them altogether.Difficulty paying attention and staying focused on your work.
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- “Hurts one. Affects all…Preventing sexual assault is everyone’s duty. Do your part!”
- The military climate on sexual assault is gravely impacted by the tolerance of sexually derogatory behavior verbally. The fear of retaliation for reporting perpetrators or minimal action taken after reporting continues to reinforce the narrative that these behaviors are acceptable.
- Ways to Handle Sexual Harassment & Assault
- I believe you. I'm sorry this happened. It's not your fault, okay? He's been abusing his position for too long. This kind of behavior has to stop! Do you want to go report it, together?
- In this scene, we have a high-ranking officer verbally and physically abusing his subordinates on the field during their deployment. He threatens to withhold promotion if they don't comply with his demands. Additionally, we see combat soldiers sending and sharing derogatory pictures and crude remarks about a female colleague. The scenario highlights how power abuse under the pretense of unwanted sexual favors is used to silence victims. Moreover, emphasizes harassment affecting both men and women in various situations in the military workplace.
- I can't believe he did that to him! I have to get out of here..
- Yea, this is that sexy new girl in our unit. I'm going to send some pictures to her!
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) not only includes the act of sexual violence perpetrated by one servicemember against another but also refers to a survivor’s psychological response (as mentioned above) to sexual violence such as harassment and assault.
- ReferencesUS Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO). (n.d.). SAPRO. www.sapr.milNational Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC). (2020). Sexual violence in the military: A guide for civilian advocates.https://www.nsvrc.org
- Make a report to the chain of command or authorized unit leader whether you were victimized or witnessed it.Assertively express that you are uncomfortable with the crude remarks and advances. Tell your family/colleagues about the issue.Seek mental/emotional support and victim assistance through VA counseling services or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
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