Cognitive Desegregation: Unmasking Human Sexuality in the US Military

ISBN: 1288317689

Author: Moreau, Melinda K

Condition: New

President Barack Obama directed Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) be replaced with a policy of nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation. While Congress considers repeal, the military is conducting research on how to implement a new policy. Repealing DADT will result in a cognitive desegregation of the military, allowing open or known homosexuals and bisexuals to serve. People differ in their opinions about the morality of homosexual acts and some have concerns about working with open gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. This thesis analyses the current DADT statute and its likely replacement, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, and provides a framework called the Cognitive Segregation model for understanding perceptions of gay, lesbians, and bisexuals in the military. A cognitive desegregation training program can empower leadership and service members to manage their concerns by teaching policy, directing professional behavior, and providing access to support services and resources.