Examining male Veterans' experiences of sexualised behaviour whilst serving in the UK Armed Forces
Research to date has broadly focused on female experiences of sexual violence - with the vast majority of victims being female, this focus is understandable. Yet, it is vital not to overlook male experiences. Recent investigations and reports into military culture have indicated that sexualised behaviour is not uncommon in the Armed Forces, citing initaition and hazing practices as well as other sexual offences. However, little is currently known about how servicemen experience sexualised behaviour, their perspective of these behaviours and the impact it may have on them during and after service.
Aim
This research aims to develop a more detailed and nuanced understanding of how sexualised behaviour occurs towards servicemen in the UK Armed Forces, with a focus on male Veteran perspectives. The secondary aim of this research is to understand current support provision and identify discrepancies between what is being offered and what is needed, based on the persepctives of male Veterans.
Research questions
- How do male Veterans define sexual victimisation?
- How does sexual victimisation impact male Veterans in the short and long term?
- What are the barriers to male Veterans’ willingness to disclose sexual victimisation for the purpose of formal complaints/reports and supporting seeking?
- What are the key differences between victim-survivor experiences with help-seeking and the perspective of support providers?
Sample / Participants
Cohort 1 - we aim to recruit 15 male Veterans who have experienced sexualised behaviour whilst serving in the UK Armed Forces, and have served within the past 5 years.
Cohort 2 - we aim to recruit 10 professionals from Veteran Support services who have experience in support male veterans disclosing sexualised behaviour.