A Trend Analysis of the Feature Article Content of 'Soldiers' Magazine, 1971 to 1978.
Abstract
Using cross-tabulation and scattergram analysis, the purpose of this study was to examine for trends in feature article content to determine the 'implicit' formula, and to reveal probable intentions, strategies, and the goals of the editors. Content categories were derived from given objectives and periodic readership surveys. Overall results were inconclusive; however, there were indications of increasing trends in hobbies and recreation, and history content, and decreasing trends in controversial issues, duty and training, and sports content. Medical, and research and development content trends were random and aperiodic. Policy, personal affairs, and personality content levels reflected their 'departmentalization' during the period studied. A decreasing trend in miscellaneous content was statistically significant (p .05). An increase in the average number of feature articles per issue with a corresponding decrease in average article length was also found. An effort toward precision editing was concluded. Further concluded was the emergence of a strategy to provide human interest content of wider, individual appeal to support the recruitment and retention goals of the All-Volunteer Army.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA061938
Entities
People
- Samuel Vaughan Wilson Jr