An Alternative Approach for Measuring Black Representation in Navy Enlisted Occupations
Abstract
This thesis examines the possible outcomes of U.S. Navy policies to achieve proportional representation of blacks in enlisted occupations. This thesis employs two models to analyze the distribution of black enlisted men in the Navy's occupational specialties. The first model uses FY 1979, FY1982, FY1985, and FY1988 cohort data to examine black male occupational representation during the fifth year of service. This study introduces a new approach to control for the influence of aptitude test scores on the occupational placement process. Black male representation in 14 occupational categories comprising 109 Navy ratings is graphically summarized using difference indicators. The study analyzes the trend in black male representation by comparing difference indicators for four enlisted cohorts spanning a 14-year period. The second model uses data on the 1991 Navy enlisted population and the 1992 census to compare the distribution of black men in Navy ratings with the distribution of black men in civilian occupations. The results of the study reveal that disproportionate representation persists in certain Navy ratings. However, when the influence of aptitude is controlled, results indicate that the Navy has made progress toward minority placement goals. The study suggests that U.S. Navy equal opportunity and affirmative action policies have been effective in achieving a more representative distributions of black men in Navy occupations. Aptitude test, ASVAB, Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, Navy occupations, Blacks, Representation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA284248
Entities
People
- Gary B. Dye
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School