Military Sexual Violence: Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment, and Sexual Hazing

Miliary sexual trauma (MST) is a pervasive issue throughout the US military. In this chapter, definitions of types of MST (i.e., sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual hazing) were discussed along with prevalence rates. Survivors of military sexual violence face challenges unlike those in civilian life, including revictimization, difficulty reporting, repeated exposure to their abuser, and feelings of helplessness. These factors are unique to military culture due to the commitment to service, rank, and formality required in service. Health consequences and outcomes of MST in the military were also examined in depth. Continued research will help understand the continued challenges that emerge and how to best improve the treatment and evaluation of MST.