Motivation to Lead and Army Socialization: Impact of Early Army Experiences : United States Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences , April 30 , 2026
April 30, 2026
United States Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences
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From the report: “Since 2017, the U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences (ARI) has conducted research with enlisted and officer cohorts in order to examine factors related to Army career progression. This report describes the findings from research questions relating to the impact of early Army experiences on two specific outcomes: motivation to lead (MTL) and Army socialization-based attitudes. This research aimed to understand how experiences such as deployment, serving as a leader, having a mentor, and taking professional courses influenced new recruits’ motivation to take on leadership roles, fit with the Army culture, and commitment to the Army. Results indicated that Soldiers’ and officers’ initial MTL and socialization-based attitudes were significantly related to those same outcomes later in their careers. Results from moderation analyses of early Army experiences were mixed such that experiences of mentor relationships, participation in professional courses, and serving as an Executive Officer ( XO) were significant moderators to some relationships. These findings can help better understand the impacts of early Army experiences on important outcomes, specifically leadership and socialization.”
Authors - Striler, Jamie, Carre, JessicaSubjects
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