Effect of Expectations on Attrition in Canadian Force Recruit Training,
Abstract
This study investigated 820 male participants, 699 who successfully completed recruit training (stayers) and 121 who failed or withdrew (leavers). Participants completed a pre-test questionnaire within two days of arrival at recruit school and a post-test questionnaire after three weeks of training. Expectations of both groups were measured against a 12 member criterion group, comprised of senior recruit instructors, recruiting officers and personnel selection officers. Findings indicate that expectations of stayers and leavers were not significantly different nor did leavers report a greater degree of disconfirmed expectations. Leavers did, however, have a greater ratio of expectations disconfirmed in a 'worst than expected' direction. A relationship was found between attrition and expectations of success in recruit training, membership in the CF after recruit training and intended length of service, with leavers responding more negatively in all three areas. Although assessment of pre-training information did not differ for the two groups, the responses of both groups shifted in a negative direction on the post-test. Implications for the DF, of the findings, are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADP001332
Entities
People
- D. S. Horton