The effects of counseling on maladaptive soldiers

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Authors
Hartjen, Raymond C.
Advisor
Duckworth, Jane C.
Issue Date
1985
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (D. Ed.)
Department
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Abstract

This study examined two research questions: 1) Is the Taylor-Johsnon Temperament Analysis (TJTA) instrument an effective instrument for predicting soldier maladjustment as measured by early discharge from the Army, and 2) Can counseling techniques be effectively employed to facilitate soldier adjustment? These research questions were answered by administering the TJTA instrument to an experimental group (N=80) and to a control group (N=149) during their first week of training. The data collection took place over a 23-month period under standardized conditions. Soldiers in both the control and the experimental groups were assigned randomly to their training units. In the control group, soldiers received normal training but the TJTA instrument results were not known by the training staff. In the experimental group, soldiers received normal training, but those who scored high in those areas of the TJTA instrument which predict maladaptive behavior were referred to a doctoral-level therapist for counseling. For both groups the TJTA did not identify or predict which soldiers would be discharged for maladjustment problems. A second study was conducted from among soldiers of other units whohad demonstrated maladaptative behavior to a degree serious enough to result in early discharge. This group was subjected to a 4-week training program designed to enhance soldier self-concept. This program was administered under the direction of drill sergeants who had received a 2-day training course in counseling techniques. More than eighty percent of these soldiers originally slated for discharge succeeded in making positive adjustments to the Army and graduated successfully into the Army.The following conclusions result from the analysis of findings of this study:1. The TJTA instrument was not predictive of maladaptive behavior of soldiers sufficient to require their discharge. 2. Formal counseling by a doctoral-level therapist was not effective in reducing maladaptive behavior. 3. Self-concept improvement training was effective in developing positive attitudes and motivations to remain in military service among soldiers who were scheduled to be eliminated from the Army for maladaptive behaviors.