Coming out in camouflage: A queer theory perspective on the strength, resilience, and resistance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender service members and veterans

2017/01/02 by M. Heliana Ramirez, Paul R. Sterzing · 1 citation
Psychology · Social Sciences · #LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy #Gender, Security, and Conflict #Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

paper · doi:10.1080/10538720.2016.1263983

openalex publication_date 2017/01/02 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/30

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members have made profound contributions to the U.S. military despite serving under anti-LGBT military policies. Little is known about their everyday acts of strength and resistance, which is vital information for developing strengths-based services. This article utilizes a queer theory framework to (a) discuss LGBT military contributions and anti-LGBT military policies, (b) explore three LGBT-specific military minority stressors, and (c) identify four strategies of strength and resistance used to manage an anti-LGBT military environment. Clinical suggestions are proposed for integrating military and LGBT identities and designing interventions that blend military and LGBT cultures.

Citations

• Minority Stress and Mental Health in Gay Men
• Prejudice, social stress, and mental health in lesbian, gay, and bisexual populations: Conceptual issues and research evidence.

Cited by

• Sexual orientation in the United States military [wikipedia]

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