Military Sexual Trauma can be either sexual harassment and/or sexual assault that take place in military settings.
Sexual harassment can include repeated unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical acts of a sexual nature that occurs in an academic or workplace setting.
Sexual assault is any sexual activity that occurs when one of the partners is involved against his or her will. Physical force or the threat of physical force may or may not be present. It can include penetration of any body cavity with another body part or foreign object.
How often does Military Sexual Trauma occur?
It is important to remember that both men and women can be the victim of sexual violence. It occurs during peacetime, trainings, and during combat zones.
One Department of Defense Study from 1995 showed that 78% of military women and 38% of military men were the target of sexual harassment. 6% of military women and 1% of military men reported attempted or completed sexual assault, although this number is probably much higher.
How is Military Sexual Trauma different than civilian sexual trauma?
Military Sexual Trauma can be different because the violations usually occur where a soldier lives and woks. They usually work very closely with the perpetrators.
Survivors are usually concerned about what can happen to their military career if they report an incident because it can be seen as breaking the closeness of the group, which is essential during wartime. Also, the Chain of Command also can get involved. A lot of soldiers also believe they will be treated worse if they report the incident or try to get other support.
Where can I go for support if I think I might be a victim of Military Sexual Trauma?
On Fort Drum, there is a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPRP) that can be reached at (315)772-5914. This program can provide support and advocacy for survivors of sexual assault. You can get services that respect your dignity, confidentiality, and other rights.
SAPRP offers two different reporting options on Fort Drum:
- 1) Restricted Reporting: Restricted reporting options do no initiate an investigation nor is the Chain of Command notified. Restricted reporting provides you more time to make an informed decision about reporting an incident.The restricted reporting officials are: Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, Unit Victim Advocate, Chaplain, or Health Care Provider
- 2) Unrestricted Reporting: Chain of Command and the Criminal Investigation Division are notified and an investigation is opened.
There is a Unit Victim Advocate that is assigned to military personnel in order to help soldiers make an informed decision about which reporting method they choose. If you do not know who your Unit Victim Advocate is, please call (315)772-5914.
The Family Advocacy Program at Social Work Services is also a good starting point on Fort Drum for support and advocacy. You can call (315)772-2778 for an appointment or walk in at any time. There are Victim Advocates that are on staff for this program.
Where can I get more education about Military Sexual Trauma?
The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program also offer classes and trainings about this issue. The Sexual Assault Prevention Trainer can be reached at (315)772-5605. You can also contact the Jefferson County Victim’s Assistance Center at (315)782-1855 (24 hours).
Links for Information Military Sexual Trauma
Military Sexual Trauma: Issues in Caring for Veterans
VA: Military Sexual Trauma Program
Source: Street, Amy and Jane Stafford. Military Sexual Trauma.