FACTOR ANALYSIS OF EXPERIMENTAL NONCOGNITIVE MEASURES OF COMBAT POTENTIAL
Abstract
As a means of identifying personality factors important in combat potential, scores on 19 noncognitive aptitude tests, 5 measures of avocational information, 7 cognitive tests of the ACB, and one experimental perceptual speed measure were factor-analyzed. Results were extended to criteria--peer and supervisor ratings on combat potential obtained after 16 weeks of AIT and in an overseas maneuver situation after one year. Comparison was made with a similar study in a Korean combat sample. Two of eight factors identified--general cognitive ability and a mechanical-social factor--were valid for the criterion of combat potential. The first factor stood up well in an independent sample while the second was somewhat less valid in the cross sample. The two factors valid in the peacetime structure appeared to reflect ratings based more on the individual's overall competence and readiness to do his job and work for group goals, whereas actual combat ratings placed greater emphasis on leadership and emotional stability under stress. Results have been applied as a conceptual framework for the development of experimental tests to measure the factors identified.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0609032
Entities
People
- C. D. Johnson
- L. K. Waters
- W. H. Helme