Men, Military Sexual Trauma and Moral Injury

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) refers to experiences of sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that a person encounters during their military service. MST can affect both men and women, though it is often less discussed in the context of male service members. Despite the stereotype that sexual violence is predominantly a women's issue, men in the military also face significant risks of MST. While women are more frequently reported as victims of MST, men also experience it, though often underreported due to various factors such as stigma, fear of not being believed, or concerns about masculinity and perceived weakness. Studies suggest that around 1% of male service members report experiencing MST, but actual numbers could be higher due to underreporting. The impact of MST on male service members can be profound and multifaceted, affecting their mental, emotional, and physical health. which encompasses symptoms like flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. Men who experience MST are at an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders. Some may turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with the trauma. MST can lead to difficulties in personal relationships, trust issues, and social withdrawal. Moral Injury refers to the psychological distress that results from actions, or the lack of them, which violate someone's moral or ethical code. It is often linked to experiences in military service where individuals feel they have transgressed their own ethical standards or have witnessed such transgressions. For men in the military, MST can contribute to moral injury in several ways and can lead to feelings of betrayal, especially when the perpetrator is a fellow service member or someone in a position of trust. This sense of betrayal can deeply conflict with the values of loyalty and brotherhood often emphasized in military culture. Survivors of MST may feel intense shame or guilt, either about the incident itself or about their perceived failure to prevent it or respond appropriately. These feelings can contribute significantly to moral injury. The experience of MST can clash with a service member's core values, such as honour and duty, leading to an internal moral conflict. Men experiencing MST and moral injury in the military face unique challenges that require comprehensive and empathetic approaches. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and providing targeted support, it is possible to address these issues and support the mental and emotional well-being of male service members. For more information on Male MST see: https://www.forward-assist.com/male-military-sexual-trauma-research

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist