Personal and Environmental Factors Contributing to BCT and Fourth Class Year Attrition.
Abstract
Based on recommendations contained in the 1976 General Accounting Office Report regarding Military Academy Attrition, a longitudinal study of attrition at the United States Air Force Academy was initiated. A locally devised Attrition Assessment Instrument (AAI) was validated and administered to the entire class of 1980 (N=1572). The instrument was designed to elucidate the causetive factors associated with attrition during Basic Cadet Training and the 4th class year. Additionally, a second instrument, designed to assess the relative motivational value of each item in the BCT curriculum, was developed and administered to the entire class at the end of BCT. In general it was concluded that attrition during Basic Cadet Training was largely a function of personal characteristics of the individual rather than demotivational aspects of training. Reduction in BCT attrition may therefore be a matter of improved candidate selection procedures. Attrition beyond BCT is less influenced by personal characteristics but is more influenced by the Academy environment experienced in the 4th class year. Suggestions on improvement in the environment are provided and deal with training goals, upperclass leadership style, feedback, and length of the 4th class training year. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA053075
Entities
People
- Thomas M. Longridge
- Valentin W. Tirman Jr
Organizations
- United States Air Force Academy