Citation

Voge VM, King RE. Aviat. Space Environ. Med. 1997; 68(10): 879-885.

Affiliation

Naval School of Health Sciences, San Diego Detachment, Ft. Sam Houston, TX, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Aerospace Medical Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

9327111

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The issue of women flying military aircraft in a combat role has been very controversial. HYPOTHESIS: To succeed, female military aircrew are very similar to their male peers. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive anonymous questionnaire survey of all U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force rated female aircrew, with an equal number of age and duty matched male aircrew. We are reporting on the interpersonal relationship and prisoner of war (P.O.W.) responses here. RESULTS: Male and female aircrew respond in a similar manner to posed questions, although differences do exist. Women reported: unequal treatment by opposite gender peers; problems relating to peers, superiors and subordinates; their gender influences assignments; the need to perform to higher standards and the need to work harder to be accepted as equals; ability to bond equally to their own and opposite gender peers; improved squadron cohesiveness in mixed gender squadrons; problems with peers' spouses; and, in a P.O.W. situation, fear of rape and sexual abuse. Men reported: women get inappropriate privileges and get special "breaks"; a gender difference in how flight duties are performed; worsened squadron cohesiveness in mixed gender squadrons; less likeliness to recommend their career path to their daughters; and a higher concern for welfare of families in a P.O.W. situation. CONCLUSIONS: Although responding in a similar manner to most questions, male and female military aircrew differ in the perception of their ability to function in mixed squadrons because of their gender. Some of these perceptions can be modified through training, others may need to be resolved through high level orders/policy; while in others, the military may have to accept women are different from men in some aspects.

Language: en