What regulations cover Disrespect?

2014-12-30T16:16:23-05:00

I have been given the task to complete a 35 min power point presentation by my team leader. Apparently, the mannerisms that I use constitute as disrespect. I have never had the problem before, but I am also new to the Army. I am trying to complete this task, but AR 600-20 only speaks of the intentional disrespect of the flag. I have looked up Article 91 and 80. Is there a direct Army regulation that specifically talks about what constitute as disrespect, or is this solely just a perception? Any and all help would be appreciated- Thank you in advance.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Dec 30 at 2014 4:19 PM

2014-12-30T16:19:56-05:00

Article 91, 89 and 134 of the UCMJ

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:20 PM

2014-12-30T16:20:19-05:00

Sometimes talk and look at yourself in the mirror. You can also record yourself and then see yourself as others do. But the best is simply the Golden Rule and you cannot go wrong with that. Also TSgt Joshua Copeland is a quick study and a good one to listen to.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:23 PM

2014-12-30T16:23:20-05:00

The Msgt is correct

Response by SFC Josh Jackson made Dec 30 at 2014 4:28 PM

2014-12-30T16:28:14-05:00

Did your team leader give you specific examples of your behavior that others consider disrespectful? Article 91 gives a broad definition of disrespect: "...treats with contempt or is disrespectful in language or deportment toward a warrant officer, noncommissioned officer, or petty officer while that officer is in the execution of his office..."

Article 89 defines who gets to declare behavior disprespectful. Here is a link breaking down the legalese of the article: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/punitivearticles/a/mcm89.htm
Basically, it is up to the senior person in any exchange to determine if behavior is disrespectful.

Where someone can really make an accusation of disrespect stick is Article 134, which states "...all disorders and neglects to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces, all conduct of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces, and crimes and offenses not capital..." In other words, if the chain of command agrees or concludes that what you did was bad, you can get in trouble for it.

What Does Article 89 Really Mean?

Articles 77 through 134 of the UCMJ are known as the

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:31 PM

2014-12-30T16:31:52-05:00

Depending on the situation FM 7-21.13 CH 4 (Customs, Courtesies and Traditions) may assist you

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:46 PM

2014-12-30T16:46:04-05:00

Sometimes you don't see what you do or say as disrespectful but to others it can be perceived as disrespectful. I'm extremely direct to the point that I've been addressed about it multiple times. I have since adjusted the delivery of my content. Some still view my delivery as a little too harsh, so when speaking to new people, I inform them that it is not my intention to sound disrespectful, but my delivery may be a little more direct than they're accustomed to. Most old CSM understand when I start off with that. Younger officers do not take it too lightly. Usually senior captains and majors. It sounds like this may also play a part in your corrective training. If it does, I would highlight this as well. I'm a glad that you are seeking guidance. There are a lot of seniors here on rally point that can provide you with much advice.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:58 PM

2014-12-30T16:58:27-05:00

Thank you so very much. I appreciate everyone's input. It has taken some worry off my shoulders and have given me a better direction to go in. I honestly was not expecting such quick response. You all have been a tremendous help.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Dec 30 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-12-30T17:00:50-05:00

The basic interpretation I used when dealing with subordinates was if their language or actions toward me or other leaders caused or could be interpreted as:
1. An attempt to "take over" the authority of position of a more senior leader without being directed to
2. The actions or language used could possibly construed as harassment, hate, dismissal of importance, meant to incite reaction (fighting words), or bullying

This is a "barracks lawyer" interpretation (nowhere near official), your answer would be best found through research with your JAG and IG offices.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 9:09 PM

2014-12-30T21:09:55-05:00

Forms of disrespect:
a. The Wisconsin National Guard is investigating one of its soldiers for allegedly posting "inappropriate" photos on Facebook while on funeral detail
b. That sound you make with your tongue and teeth and the heavy sigh we did as kids
c. The eye roll
d. Mouthing off in silent mode mimicking what the other person said when there back is turned to you.
e. Inappropriate sarcasm
f. Speaking in a condescending or belittling way
g. Dismissive or negative gesturing when someone else is speaking
h. Talking over another person; poor behavior in meetings
i. Discounting the person’s thoughts or feelings (“Oh, that’s silly”) in meetings

Discipline is the glue that holds a team together. Without it, there is no unit cohesion, no espirit de corps, no coordination. However, discipline is a complex product of training, leadership, and respect.

Respect is treating others with consideration and honor. It is the expectation that others
are as committed to getting the job done as you are while accepting they may have different
ways of doing so. You don’t have to accept every suggestion to show respect; just expect
honesty and professionalism.

Today the Army defines RESPECT as (Quote) "The regard and recognition of the absolute dignity that every human being possesses; incorporates diversity and compassion." An even easier way is to think of it as The Golden Rule – treating fellow soldiers exactly the way you would wish to be treated.

So the "bad" behaviors you thought were ok in the civilian world are contradictory in the military environment you are in. Disrespect is opposite of Respect - an Army Value.

When I was first in, my team leader told me, "Disrespect is anything that I perceive it to be".
So I made sure I didn't do anything that could be perceived that way.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 2 at 2016 12:29 PM

2016-03-02T12:29:55-05:00

Look into local policies and guidelines from your unit and Batt. The entire UCMJ speaks on disrespect and not fulfilling our obligations to the Uniform Service.

If you need help with this assignment let me know. I build lesson plans and PPs.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2017 6:37 PM

2017-07-22T18:37:13-04:00

What about when an NCO turns to an airman who is asking another airman question (Not a teaching/ classroom setting) and the NCO turns and says "Shut the f*** up". Then later attempts to write a separate airman up for insubordination?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2020 7:38 PM

2020-03-17T19:38:40-04:00

600-20 chapter 4-?
Treat all persons would treat all persons with dignity and respect. Search for bullying and hazing