Abstract
This chapter details the current literature base on the victimization of active-duty service members and veterans who are sexual and gender minority individuals. Limited research exists examining the behavioral health experiences of sexual and gender minorities (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people) as they relate to various social institutions. In particular, the experiences of these minority groups are not well understood in the context of active-duty military service. To begin the chapter, a historical description of policies and practices has been the backdrop to disparities faced by sexual and gender minorities serving in the US military. Then, empirical research is reviewed in order to elucidate the violent victimization experiences of these service members. Additionally, literature regarding other documented forms of social marginalization is reviewed. Specifically, the impact of social marginalization on individual and community functioning is detailed. Furthermore, sexual and gender minority service members’ achievements are highlighted, which demonstrate this group’s resilience in the face of exclusionary policies and systemic marginalization. To end, brief recommendations are offered for future research to improve understanding of these service members’ experiences and needs. Recommendations for how organizational settings may promote safety and an affirmative environment for sexual and gender minority service members are given as well.
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Burgess, C., Klemt Craig, C.B., Klemmer, C.L. (2021). Sexual and Gender Minority Marginalization in Military Contexts. In: Lund, E.M., Burgess, C., Johnson, A.J. (eds) Violence Against LGBTQ+ Persons. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-52612-2_24
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-52612-2_24
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