The Use of Psychological Operations as a Strategic Tool

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA377939 | Open PDF

Abstract:

The technology revolution the world is now experiencing has changed the way we do business, the way we live, and the way we fight wars. Never before in our history has the population been exposed to the magnitude of information they are being exposed to today. This information has a direct affect on how the United States interacts with other nations, allies, and adversaries. A potential now exists to use information to our advantage in the pursuit of our national interests. This Strategic Research Paper examines the importance of using information in Psychological Operations PSYOP as a strategic tool for achieving national goals and objectives. It provides a review of national security policies pertaining to use of PSYOP, examines the availability and relevancy of PSYOP policy, and provides an analysis of the policy and recommendations to improve it. Additionally this research paper will analyze the use of PSYOP during Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM DSDS and examine lessons learned from the use of PSYOP as a combat multiplier during this war.

Author(s):
Perry, Kathy J.
Author Organization(s):
ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA377939
Pagination:
0026

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
USAWC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_8.1_Communicate; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_8.1.3_Influence Adversary and Competitor Audiences; JCA_3.1.3_Maneuver to Influence; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_4.7.2_Installation Services; JCA_4.7_Base and Installations Support; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_8.2_Shape; JCA_5.4_Decide; JCA_8.1.1_Inform Domestic and Foreign Audiences; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_5.1_Organize; JCA_5.1.1_Establish and Maintain Unity of Effort with Mission Partners; JCA_8.2.4_Leverage Capacities and Capabilities of Security Establishments; JCA_5.4.3_Establish Rule Sets
Modernization Areas:
Cyber
Communities of Interest:
Human Systems
Descriptor(s):
*MILITARY OPERATIONS, *POLITICAL SCIENCE, *LESSONS LEARNED, *PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS, FOREIGN POLICY, WARFARE, IRAQ, KUWAIT, NATIONAL SECURITY, INFORMATION WARFARE, SMART TECHNOLOGY
Field(s)/Group(s):
Psychology, Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics, Government and Political Science
Report Date:
2000 Apr 10
Creation Date:
2000 Jun 14