Archetypes, Paradox, and Double Binds: A Critical Examination of Discourse on Women’s Roles in the U.S. Military

• In Event: Women, War, Nation and Race

Abstract

Women’s roles in the U.S. military continue to be a source of ideological debate. This study examined survey data from 193 students on their perceptions and beliefs regarding women’s roles in the armed forces and combat. Analysis of the closed questions revealed that the majority of respondents favored women’s complete military participation. However, participants’ narratives regularly contradicted their initially supportive responses. The role of ideology in socially constructing double binds for women soldiers is discussed.

Authors

• John Howard III, East Carolina Univ

• Laura Prividera, East Carolina Univ