Organizational and Ideological Barriers to Sex Integration in Military Groups

Abstract

This article summarizes salient factors affecting sex integration in traditionally all male fields that have emerged from prior studies. The operation of these variables in military groups is illustrated through the use of existing literature as well as data from a four-year study at the U.S. Air Force Academy. These variables include organizational characteristics such as sex-linked roles, social control systems as well as the numerical ratios and social attributes of group members. Occupational ideology also affects integration and particularly elements that stress male exclusivity and gender differentiation. The parameters of these organizational and ideological factors affect the outcome of sex integration. The data summarized here point to the slow pace of the integration of women into the full range of military roles and ranks.