Influencing Factors on Military Adaptation among Korean Soldiers

Abstract

Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate the influencing factors on military adaptation among Korean military soldiers.

Methods: The participants were 232 military soldiers in the four platoons. The data was collected from May, 10 to 22, 2006 by using self-report questionnaires. The instruments used were military personnel adaptation scale, stress in military life scale, beck depression inventory, and self-esteem inventory. The data was analyzed by using the SPSS/Win 12.0 program.

Results: Military adaptation negatively correlated to military stress and depression, while it positively correlated to self-esteem. Military adaptation differed by educational level and negatively correlated to the duration of military service. Military stress, depression, self-esteem, and educational level accounted for 54% of the variance in military adaptation.

Conclusion: The influencing factors on military adaptation were military stress, depression, self-esteem, and educational level. Programs which focus on stress management and relaxation techniques, and problem solving abilities should be developed and provided. Soldiers at risk should be identified at an early stage and referred to clinical professionals.