Publications

This report provides an interdisciplinary review and analysis of the social, cultural, and psychological factors that impact gender integration in military organizations with particular focus on the integration of women into ground combat units. The analysis builds upon evidence-based research related to integration such as that which considers cohesion, masculinity, critical mass, and sexual harassment. This knowledge is coupled with historical experience, lessons learned, strategies, and implementation plans that are rolling out across military organizations today. Drawing from culture change frameworks, the analysis highlights the importance of: engagement with all impacted members to contribute to change strategy; commitment to assessment and monitoring to expedite response through continuous feedback loops, as well as long-term monitoring and assessment to facilitate leadership response to values and beliefs expressed through social dynamics such as cultural narratives, and patterns of conduct; and, follow through to ensure that all members, and leaders in particular, have the opportunity and necessary resources to develop skills and competencies necessary to respond to change imperatives. Finally, the analysis suggests that integration strategy should not be limited to existing standards and security challenges but provide opportunities for emerging practices and social inclusions to contribute to operational effectiveness.