LIT 12 - Cohen, Ties that bind Flashcards
What is combatant socialisation?
Combatant socialisation is the process by which armed groups use violence, such as gang rape, to integrate new members and create social bonds between fighters. This process communicates norms of masculinity, virility, brutality, and loyalty, transforming individuals into committed members of the group.
Why do some armed groups use sexual violence for socialisation?
Sexual violence, particularly gang rape, is an efficient way to build cohesion in groups with low pre-existing social bonds, such as those formed through abduction. It communicates norms of masculinity and brutality in a way that other forms of violence might not. The shared experience, and the pressure to participate, can bind perpetrators together and strengthen their commitment to the group.
What are some individual-level factors that might influence susceptibility to violent socialisation?
Age: Younger recruits, especially child soldiers, may be more susceptible to violent socialisation due to their lack of previous social experiences and their desire to fit in.
Previous socialisation experiences: Individuals with limited prior exposure to formal social structures, like schools or religious institutions, may be more vulnerable to the influence of armed groups.
Physical insecurity: Combatants facing threats to their safety, such as food insecurity or fear of punishment, may be more likely to participate in violence to ensure their survival and acceptance within the group.
What are some alternative arguments to the combatant socialisation theory? Regarding Sexual Violence by the military
Rape as a weapon of war: Some argue that rape is strategically used to terrorise the population. However, this view often conflates consequences with intent, and lacks evidence of strategic planning by commanders.
Reverse causality of food insecurity: The relationship between food insecurity and violence may be reversed, with abusive groups needing to steal food because civilians distrust them.
Rape as payment: Some see rape as a form of payment for uncompensated soldiers. However, this fails to explain the prevalence of gang rape and its brutality, which are better understood as mechanisms for group cohesion.
What are the policy implications of the combatant socialisation theory?
The theory suggests that interventions should focus on strengthening individuals’ resilience to social pressure and violence. This could include: Improving access to education and social support systems before conflicts erupt. Providing food aid and security to combatants during conflicts. Developing post-conflict programs that address the psychological effects of violent socialisation and promote reintegration into civilian life.
What are some of the challenges in studying combatant socialisation?
Internal nature of the process: Socialisation is an internal psychological process, making it difficult to observe directly.
Limited data availability: Data on individual combatants and their experiences, particularly concerning sensitive topics like sexual violence, is often scarce and difficult to collect.
Potential for bias in self-reporting: Ex-combatants may be reluctant to admit to participating in or witnessing violence, particularly in interviews conducted after the conflict has ended.
Difficulty in distinguishing between pre-existing beliefs and those developed through socialisation: It can be challenging to separate individual pre-dispositions towards violence from the effects of group socialisation.
