Accession Number:

ADA151063

Title:

Racial Harmony, Leadership, and Unit Effectiveness in Combat Units: An Exploratory Assessment of Causal Relationships

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 15 Jun 1978-15 Apr 1980

Corporate Author:

JOHNSON (LAWRENCE) AND ASSOCIATES INC WASHINGTON DC

Personal Author(s):

• Griesemer, H. A.

Report Date:

1980-04-15

Pagination or Media Count:

124.0

Abstract:

Causal relationships between racial harmony and unit effectiveness, and between leadership, racial harmony, and unit effectiveness were examined using a longitudinal design and cross-lagged panel analysis. Sixty combat line companies were studied over a seven-month period. Data collected included both survey and record data measures. Cross-lagged panel analysis revealed that, in general, improvements in unit effectiveness were conductive to improvements in racial harmony, although one measure of racial harmony, perceived overall racial climate, was found to reduce perceptions of insubordination in the unit and increase the performance rating of and acquiescence to company leaders. Leadership variables, like the racial harmony variables, generally improved as a result of unit effectiveness. An exception to this trend was found in the leadership punishment variables, number of Article 15s, and number of unprogrammed discharges, which were found to have a negative effect on several aspects of unit effectiveness and racial climate. Additional keywords enlisted personnel Army personnel.

Descriptors:

• *ARMY PERSONNEL
• *LEADERSHIP
• *RACE RELATIONS
• COMBAT EFFECTIVENESS
• ENLISTED PERSONNEL
• MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS
• MINORITIES
• OPERATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

Subject Categories:

• Psychology
• Personnel Management and Labor Relations
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE