The mechanism of defence: identity, structure and perceptions of gender and sexuality in the military

Bates, Chad The mechanism of defence: identity, structure and perceptions of gender and sexuality in the military. Unspecified thesis, University of Liverpool.

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Abstract

The ‘Mechanism of Defence’ project is an interdisciplinary study that examines the effect of sexuality on the perceived cohesion, morale and unit effectiveness of University Officer Training Corps (UOTC) battalions. The study privileges sociological theory and social policy using Emile Durkheim’s Division of Labour as its primary theoretical frame. The study evidences the influence of social structure as a central and abiding force in the establishment of community values and the integration of sexual minorities. It seeks to inform integrative measures in countries like the United States by examining and illustrating as a model the United Kingdom’s approach (post EU-ordered integration). The study has secured the full participation of the twelve largest (of 19 total) Territorial Army UOTC battalions in England and Wales. Five hundred and fifty-nine (559) British Army UOTC cadets were surveyed as to cohesion, morale, unit effectiveness and familiarity with minorities (including gays and lesbians) in their units in a comprehensive total sample of these battalions. 26 Cadets, commanding officers, adjutants and PSIs (Permanent Staff instructors, i.e. service veterans, some active service personnel) agreed to full length interviews (two to three hours each) regarding levels of cohesion, morale and unit effectiveness and the challenges they face as leaders in the post-integrative modern military system. The study devotes significant attention to the development, manifestation and impact of group, individual and community identity and the dynamics of organizational behaviour. This includes the extent of (individual and group) defence mechanisms triggered by gender and homophobia within the military environment. It also charts the development of anti-gay discrimination throughout history (from Ancient Greece and Feudal Japan to present day) with a brief but informative look at the effects of religion and politics.

Item Type:	Thesis (Unspecified)
Additional Information:	Date: 2011-08 (completed)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Integration, minority, gay, gay and lesbian
Subjects:	?? HM ??
Divisions:	Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences > School of Law and Social Justice
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	07 Aug 2012 09:01
Last Modified:	16 Dec 2022 04:36
DOI:	10.17638/00005673
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/5673