The Interrelationship of Stress, Safety, and Realism in U.S. Marine Corps Ground Combat Individual Skills Training

Abstract

This thesis studied three critical parameters which significantly influence the effectiveness of individual combat skills training. This training must replicate the parameters expected to be encountered in any 'real world' situation. The closer the leader comes to creating these conditions, the more realistic the training. Realism is enhanced the more it involves the actual stresses of battle. Safety regulations also play an important role as the leader develops realistic training. The interdependence of these three elements requires harmonization for maximum effectiveness. The author's methodological approach to research included a review of existing documentary materials which established current training philosophy, an analysis of the results of a survey sent to Marine Corps combat veterans, and a synopsis of interviews conducted with international officers. In the author's opinion, training is not being conducted as realistically as it could be, causes and countermeasures for battlefield stress are not being formally instructed, and existing safety policies are often unnecessarily restricting the quality of training.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 07, 1991
Accession Number
ADA242606

Entities

People

  • Charles A. Romans Jr

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accidents
  • Artillery
  • Basic Training
  • Combat Areas
  • Combat Readiness
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Employment
  • Lessons Learned
  • Medical Personnel
  • Military Personnel
  • Military Science
  • Military Training
  • Personnel Management
  • Small Arms
  • Students
  • Training Management
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Psychological Intervention/Treatment for Stress, Anxiety, PTSD, and Related Emotional and Cognitive Health Symptoms.
  • Systems Analysis and Design