Cognitive Desegregation: Unmasking Human Sexuality in the US Military

Abstract

President Barack Obama directed Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) be replaced with a policy of nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation. While Congress considers repeal, the military is conducting research on how to implement a new policy. Repealing DADT will result in a cognitive desegregation of the military, allowing open or known homosexuals and bisexuals to serve. People differ in their opinions about the morality of homosexual acts and some have concerns about working with open gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. This thesis analyses the current DADT statute and its likely replacement, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, and provides a framework called the Cognitive Segregation model for understanding perceptions of gay, lesbians, and bisexuals in the military. A cognitive desegregation training program can empower leadership and service members to manage their concerns by teaching policy, directing professional behavior, and providing access to support services and resources.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2010
Accession Number
AD1019159

Entities

People

  • Melinda K. Moreau

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • California
  • Civil Rights
  • Court Martial
  • Homophobia
  • Homosexuality
  • International Relations
  • Law
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Personnel
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Sexual Assault
  • Societies
  • Students
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aerospace Propulsion Engineering.
  • Government and Public Administration Law.
  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.