The term describes personal relationships that violate the customary bounds of acceptable senior-subordinate conduct within the armed forces. These relationships can erode the respect for authority, create perceptions of unfairness, and compromise the chain of command. For instance, a commissioned officer engaging in a romantic relationship with an enlisted service member directly under their command would typically constitute such a violation.
Maintaining good order and discipline is the primary rationale behind its prohibition. Allowing personal relationships to influence professional judgment can lead to favoritism, bias, and compromised decision-making. Historically, concerns about unit cohesion and combat effectiveness have driven the strict enforcement of policies regulating interactions between different ranks and positions. This regulation ensures a professional environment where decisions are based on merit and duty, not personal connections.
