Women in the Military, Experiences of

Throughout human history, soldiers have almost always been men. However, this does not mean that women were uninvolved in military matters. Women have filled support roles for just about every army in the past 2,000 years. Many times, they have also, either covertly or openly, joined men on the field of battle. In recent years, women in Western countries have joined the military and become full-fledged soldiers, being combat trained and fighting in battles alongside their male comrades. This entry offers historical and societal background on women in the military. In addition, an overview of the psychology of women in [Page 1819]combat roles is given. This article also explores women in combat roles.