Sexual assaults
Introduction
Sexual assaults are prevalent issues in various dockets of work, and it is also seen in the army. Those who conduct these atrocities are either workmates or friends of the victims of the assault. Sexual assault has been an established issue in the military, and statistics indicate that a good number of individuals in the military have experienced sexual assaults. The issue has affected both genders, and the specific age that is suffering from this offense ranges from 17-24 years, according to a study conducted by the University of South California (2019). What sexual assault entails is inappropriate sexual contact or behavior, suggesting sex to an uninterested individual. These assaults are detrimental to the victims, and they can cause significant damage to their self-esteem and give them depression or even anxiety disorders. Therefore, it is imperative to identify why the cases are increasing and how to deplete sexual assaults in the army.
Why Sexual Assault Occurs and is Current Approaches Prevent Sexual Assaults
Many sexual assaults are enacted by perpetrators who are at a more advantage than their victims hence their feel to commit sexual atrocities. Most of these individuals uphold stereotypical behavior that women are inferior and can treat them as sex objects. For instance, their many depictions of women’s inferiority in music and films where they are taken as sexual objects for men’s gratification. It is imperative to note that women are the most victims of sexual assaults hence the applicability of the stereotype. Nevertheless, there are other causes of sexual assaults like drug abuse that can attribute to sexual assaults in different environments.
However, various measures put across to ensure that sexual assaults are not practiced have not proven effective enough. There are increasing cases of sexual assault and harassment in the army, and no effective measure has been implemented. It, therefore, signifies that our system is wanting, and more effective means should be created. There should be the implementation of new training methods of curbing sexual assaults since the current ones are not working. The army’s individuals are trained to fight the enemy, but no measure has been put forward to curb the issue with their immediate enemy.
Measures to reduce the number of sexual assaults need to be implemented due to the fact of the effect these assaults have on the victims. There have been cases of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, suicidal attempts, substance abuse, and depression, to mention a few. According to an article about sexual harassment and assault in the military by Psychological Health Center, there was an indication that most individuals are suffering. It is imperative to end these atrocities in the army.
How to End Sexual Violence in the Army
Punishment to offenders is not enough to curb sexual violence in the army. Not that punishments should be alleviated, they should be implemented even more harshly. Nevertheless, there must be a change in the ideology of members in the military from superiors to subordinates. Creating a safe culture for all members of the military will be a much effective way to ensure that sexual assaults are limited. Additionally, commanders in the army are supposed to be held responsible if any case may arise concerning sexual violence. Leaders in the military should be accountable for any misconduct.
Conclusion
Sexual assault in the military should be eliminated at all costs. The victims have more than enough to handle to be involved in such matters. The reason for sexual assault and violence should be identified, and issues like stereotypes eliminated in the army. Additionally, individuals who have faced problems like sexual harassment issues should be taken care of to avoid adverse effects on them. The army should be the most disciplined, and such trivial matters of sexual assault, harassment, and violence should be unheard of.