The readiness imperative for reducing sexual violence in the US armed forces: Respect and professionalism as the foundation for change

ABSTRACT

This article provides a senior leader perspective on the issue of sexual violence in the US military. The negative effects of sexual harassment and sexual assault (SH/SA) appear across organizational levels and degrade the Department of Defense’s (DoD) readiness to meet current and future challenges. The authors offer respect and professionalism as a driving force in preventing interpersonal violence and cultivating an inclusive workforce with the breadth of capabilities needed to deter war and protect our national security. Recommendations for creating positive climates, expanding leadership capability and rethinking traditional approaches to training are discussed.

KEY WORDS:

• Sexual harassment
• sexual assault
• sexual violence
• military readiness
• professionalism
• respect