Final answer:
Rationalization in the military context often takes the form of attributing sexist behavior to cultural norms and traditional gender roles. During WWII, women's increasing roles in the military presented a challenge to traditional norms, leading to both resistance and eventual change in the perception of their abilities and contributions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rationalization is an ego defense mechanism that involves justifying behaviors by substituting acceptable reasons for less-acceptable real reasons. In the context of sexism and the military, a common form of rationalization might involve attributing the unequal treatment of women to cultural norms or traditional gender roles. For instance, women may be discouraged from joining certain military ranks or specialties because these roles conflict with societal expectations of femininity and nurturing.
During World War II and subsequent periods, women's roles in the military were often rationalized in a way that preserved traditional structures. Women who sought to integrate fully into the military and complicate the traditional image of men as the sole protectors of the nation evoked resistance. The challenge they presented to the institutional gender structure of the military threatened to upend longstanding societal norms regarding masculinity and gender roles.
Historically, sexism has often been rationalized through a variety of arguments, such as the need to 'protect' women or the assertion that women are naturally suited to certain jobs. However, over time, the valuable contributions of women in the military and in society have helped erode some of these arguments, leading to a broader recognition of the need for equal treatment and opportunities.