The Sociology of the Army Reserves
Abstract
This report presents a conceptual framework of reserve components. The focus is on the Selected Reserves of the U.S. Army. The guiding principle of the report is that reserve components are more than just an organizational variation of active components. The core characteristics of the reserve components are highlighted by an organizational contrast with active-duty components and by a comparative contrast of American reserves with those of other Western countries. The following variables differentiate reserves from active-duty components: (1) Normative motivation is a significant factor; (2) Military Occupational Specialty mismatch is a problem; (3) Family conflict is greater with seniors than juniors; and (4) Career development increasingly comes into conflict with the pressures of demanding civilian occupations. Comparative analysis identified the following as the unique elements of the American reserves face exceptional conflict between reserve duties and civilian employment responsibilities. Such conflict promises to become more severe as reserve components become increasingly integrated with the active force under Total Force concepts. This report makes policy recommendations based on the analysis. Keywords: Army national guard, Military sociology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA226718
Entities
People
- Charles C. Moskos
Organizations
- Northwestern University