Low-Aptitude Men in the Military: Who Profits, Who Pays

(Hardback)

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This volume examines two recent periods in military manpower history that have had a profound and lasting effect on military recruitment and selection policy. Project 100,000 and the ASVAB Misnorming brought thousands of low-aptitude men into the military. While military officials recall these times with anything but affection, some social activists praise these periods as exemplary military social welfare ventures that could be resurrected today. The authors examine the history behind Project 100,000 and the ASVAB Misnorming as well as their outcomes, both for the military and for the men brought into the service. The data does not support the claim that a tour of duty will ultimately lead to civilian success for the low-aptitude veterans. While some have fond feelings for the military and may have profited from the experience, many were found to be less well off economically and socially than their nonveteran counterparts.

Reviews

This book offers compelling evidence that efforts, although well-intended, to use the services as social welfare agents of change were misguided efforts of convenience. This excellent book will help you appreciate these new projections.-Military Review
"This book offers compelling evidence that efforts, although well-intended, to use the services as social welfare agents of change were misguided efforts of convenience. This excellent book will help you appreciate these new projections."-Military Review

Author Bio

JANICE H. LAURENCE is a Senior Scientist with the Human Resources Research Organization (HumRRO), where she does research on military personnel enlistment, assignment, performance, and retention. She has authored or co-authored three books and more than 40 technical reports, monographs, and papers pertaining to problems of military manpower and policy analysis. PETER F. RAMSBERGER is also a Senior Scientist with HumRRO, where his professional interests range from survey research to instructional design. He has directed studies of youth in military service and has designed award-winning interactive videodisc training programs. His work is documented in two books and a number of technical reports, papers, journal articles, and presentations.