Should we introduce Positive Psychology training into PME courses for NCOs, Warrants, and Officers?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 11:18:40 -0400

Recent research in the past few decades has shown overwhelming evidence that a focus on positive outcomes of actions and a positive work environment drives better results over time. Should we introduce training on positive psychology to our leaders through professional military education programs?

Response by SFC Stephen King made Jun 27 at 2018 11:20 AM

SFC Stephen King — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 11:20:50 -0400

Yes, I know we should. It has helped me and others in personal growth and learning what you can control, your thoughts and what you can't other people.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2018 12:11 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:11:51 -0400

Well, that depends on a lot actually.

Is it productive to foster an "eat your own" mentality driving only those with the most aggressive sense of self-actualization to persevere?

I'd argue that yes, it is...provided that result fulfills the objective.

However, if that mentality doesn't include a sense that human beings need time and experience to develop into "fully baked" versions of their best self...than we should certainly re-examine our approach. You can't do the mission if you've insufficient personnel to carry it out.

Ultimately, the Military (and most other organizations actually) don't exist to help people "develop"; they exist to perform a specific role requiring specific types of people. The training and professional development of said persons, whether military or civilian, should be based on taking someone who already possesses the "basis" for the correct mentality and competency...and bringing them to maximum efficiency as rapidly (and cost effectively) as possible.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jun 27 at 2018 12:18 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:18:09 -0400

Most NCO programs have military oriented programs touching in this area. No need to get softer (not meant to sound patronizing) or more touchy freely. I believe (one mans opinion) that we have made too many changes to fast without time for all leaders to catch up. The CSM TRADOC and the stag have done a great job keeping pace. Thank you for your service.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jun 27 at 2018 1:32 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 13:32:44 -0400

I think all NCOES and Officer school need to change and address this subject and resume writing for solider in these schools.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 27 at 2018 6:53 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 18:53:26 -0400

It should be included in the leadership classes. My leadership courses were vague and nebulous.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Jun 28 at 2018 10:34 AM

CWO2 James Mathews — Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:34:56 -0400

As Usual, I can only speak for myself, and since I don't know anything except what is printed above about this program, I cannot say too awfully much! However, I have never gotten much out of a psychiatrist. I know pretty much what I want to do, what I can do, and who I am, so I really do not think I require having someone tell me what I need. If an individual has questions about his next course in life after a big change or a loss of a loved one, then I think such might be an idea to explore. I got my lessons early from some great parents and from them, I learned who I was, and how to behave. They let me decide on the road to life I would take. As a new recruit I had determined to do one thing, and then I was intrigued by the idea of a submarine, and I abandoned my early "young adult" plans and accepted a new course. My Navy Lessons taught me a great deal about leadership and technical writing, and from those things, I completed my schooling (Masters Degree with Distinction), received Certification as a Public Schools Teacher (K-12), a Boy Scout Silver Beaver Award, and two St. Barbara's Award, among several others, and following that completed another twenty years at a job I was good at and liked. I am now retired, twice, and am engaged in Ancient History study and research, model building, and Teaching Myself to Sketch. I am not much on religion, simply because there are far too many miracles centuries away from the present and two many stories that everyone spouts to no avail. I have my own beliefs and find that they satisfy me quite completely and I depend upon NO belief system except my own. In closing, I must say that the program that you offer may help some people, but in considering my life and what lies before me, I am quite happy with my own views, decisions, and philosophy, and in all probability most men and women veterans who have reached the higher ranks will be satisfied as well.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Jun 30 at 2019 7:35 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 07:35:31 -0400

As a counselor and a former commander, I would say this would be a helpful addition.