Deep Dive
Why does the Marine Corps have a higher prevalence of eating disorders compared to other military branches?
The Marine Corps culture emphasizes competition, bodily self-denial, and physical prowess, which overlap with the values of someone committed to an eating disorder.
What values in the Marine Corps culture contribute to the development of eating disorders?
Values such as competition, bodily self-denial, and the belief in self-mastery through physical prowess can appeal to individuals predisposed to eating disorders.
How did Bailey Williams' upbringing influence her decision to join the Marine Corps?
Raised in a strict Mormon household, Williams sought to escape a culture of secrecy and patriarchy, finding a similar yet more demanding environment in the Marine Corps.
What was the impact of Bailey Williams' disordered eating on her body while serving in the Marine Corps?
Her disordered eating led to significant physical damage, including her esophagus, and caused her to push her body to extremes through excessive running and starvation.
How did Bailey Williams' experience in the Marine Corps compare to her expectations?
While expecting a meritocratic environment where she would be judged on effort and character, she instead faced aggressive sexualization and a culture of secrecy similar to her Mormon upbringing.
What role did the concept of 'him and her' play in the Marine Corps culture?
The concept reinforced gender stereotypes, with 'him' representing the ideal Marine and 'her' as a warning against the perceived failings of female Marines.
How did Bailey Williams' experience of sexual assault in the Marine Corps affect her?
She felt a sense of inevitability and numbness, having normalized lesser forms of sexual harassment, which made her hesitant to report the assault.
What was the reaction of Bailey Williams' superiors to her eating disorder?
Her superiors were kind but lacked understanding of the severity of her condition, often dismissing it as not serious enough due to her not being underweight.
How did Bailey Williams' recovery process influence her writing of 'Hollow'?
Her recovery, which included extensive backpacking and yoga, helped her cultivate a new narrative of strength and self-worth, informing the unflinching portrayal of her past struggles.
What is the significance of the Permian Basin in the TV drama 'Landman'?
The Permian Basin, rich in petroleum, serves as the backdrop for the series, highlighting the influence and challenges of the oil industry in West Texas.
- Marine culture values competition and bodily self-denial.
- The belief in self-mastery through physical prowess is common.
- These values can appeal to individuals with grand desires and a strong sense of wanting to succeed.
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