The Role of Recreation in Facilitating Gender Integration in the Navy
Abstract
This project was initiated in response to requests from the fleet to provide Navy leadership with tools to facilitate the integration of women throughout the active duty force. This study explored how Navy Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs could assist Navy leaders with this challenge. Research findings from recreation, sports psychology, and past efforts in diversity management shed light on using recreation to facilitate gender integration. Survey data collected from active duty personnel clarify similarities and differences in men's and women's recreation needs. This data also demonstrated how use of Navy MWR fitness centers impacts key individual and organizational outcomes, such as satisfaction with one's life and intentions to remain in the Navy. Data collected on the first aircraft carrier to deploy with both men and women describes a common foundation on which to build integrated fitness programs aboard ship. Experiences at the Naval Academy emphasize the importance of fitness for both the physical and social outcomes it provides. Interviews and expertise from Navy MWR professionals encourage Navy leadership to look to MWR for facilities and programs that encourage team building, unit cohesion, and gender integration among our active duty force. Lastly, recommendations concerning recreation programming for gender integration are offered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA351098
Entities
People
- Amy L. Culbertson
- John P. Harden
- Patricia J. Thomas
Organizations
- Bureau of Naval Personnel