Defining military sexual trauma: establishing parameters and perspectives.

ABSTRACT

Background: The term military sexual trauma [MST] is increasingly used to describe instances of sexual harassment/assault that occur between serving personnel during military service. However, in the absence of a clear universal definition, MST is an increasingly contested term, with confusion about its scope, application to differing jurisdictions and implications for responses and treatment.Objective: This editorial provides a universal definition of MST, decoupled from any national system or framework.Method: Drawing on existing international evidence about the nature and impact of MST.Results and Conclusion: We argue that MST terminology provides a unique framing which recognises the institutional nature of MST victimisation and situates the context, behaviours, and impact on a continuum of violence.

MST terminology provides understanding and acknowledgement of the nuances of sexual harassment/assault in the military institution.MST terminology should encompass a continuum of sexual violence.Drawing on existing military health research, the authors contend that MST should be considered as a distinctive traumatic stressor.