Description:
Given that a masculinised institution like the military presents an<br />exaggerated picture of hegemonic masculinities, and particularly emphasising<br />physical fitness as one of the multiple ways in achieving masculinity, this paper<br />provides an overview of how men in the military construct women’s role in the<br />military. This information is useful in understanding the gender power relations that<br />make it difficult for most women in the military. The paper is based on a qualitative<br />study of a diverse group of 24-33 year old male soldiers. Participants’ stories<br />reflected how notions of the strong body, particularly in the military context, which<br />values toughness, contributes to masculinity. They further see women’s expression<br />of sexuality and their participation in command or combat roles as having dire<br />consequences in terms of corrupting or weakening military deployment. This paper<br />concludes that tackling traditional forms of male sexuality as they get played out in<br />the military context involves the examination of dominant constructions of<br />masculinity, and in particular discourses prescribing traditional sexual practices.