Sexual harassment in the military

Sexual Harassment in the Military

A U.S. Army SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) poster.

Sexual harassment in the military is a significant issue that affects service members across all branches and ranks. It encompasses a range of unwelcome behaviors of a sexual nature that can undermine the integrity, discipline, and cohesion of military units. This article explores the definition, prevalence, impact, and measures taken to address sexual harassment within military contexts.

Definition

Sexual harassment in the military is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a person's job, pay, or career. 2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a person is used as a basis for career or employment decisions affecting that person. 3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.

Prevalence

Sexual harassment is a pervasive issue in the military, with numerous reports and studies indicating that it affects a significant number of service members. Surveys conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD) and other organizations have consistently shown that both men and women experience sexual harassment, though women are disproportionately affected.

Impact

The impact of sexual harassment in the military is profound, affecting not only the victims but also the overall effectiveness and morale of military units. Victims may experience psychological distress, decreased job satisfaction, and impaired performance. The presence of sexual harassment can also erode trust and cohesion within units, ultimately compromising mission readiness.

Measures to Address Sexual Harassment

The military has implemented various programs and policies to combat sexual harassment, including:

• Training and Education: Mandatory training programs aim to educate service members about what constitutes sexual harassment and how to prevent it.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Systems are in place to allow victims to report incidents of sexual harassment confidentially and safely.
• Support Services: Victims have access to counseling and support services to help them cope with the aftermath of harassment.
• Disciplinary Actions: The military enforces strict disciplinary measures against perpetrators of sexual harassment to deter future incidents.

Notable Programs

• SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention): A comprehensive program implemented by the U.S. Army to prevent and respond to sexual harassment and assault.

Challenges

Despite efforts to address sexual harassment, challenges remain. These include underreporting due to fear of retaliation, stigma, and a culture that may discourage speaking out. Additionally, ensuring consistent enforcement of policies across all branches and units is an ongoing challenge.

Also see

• Military culture
• Sexual assault in the military
• Gender equality in the military
• Military justice

References

• Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military.
• U.S. Army SHARP Program.

External links

• [Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office](https://www.sapr.mil/)
• [U.S. Army SHARP Program](https://www.army.mil/sharp/)

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Leeuwin Barracks, a military installation.

The administrative pavilion of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean.

Army Foundation College in Harrogate.