A risk factor model predicting the relationship between stress and performance in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training

Abstract

Public reporting burden for tliis coilection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including tlie time for reviewing instructions, searcliing existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and compieting and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302, and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project 10704-0188), Washington, DC 20503. , REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED 1. AGENCY USE ONLY (Leave blank)2. REPORT DATE 7.Oct.02 DISSERTATION TITLE AND SUBTITLE A RISK FACTOR MODEL PREDICTING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRESS AND PERFORMANCE IN EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL (EOD) TRAINING AUTHOR(S)MAJ BATES MARK J PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)UNIFORMED SERVICES UNIV OF HEALTH SCIENC unique opportunity to study the interaction between stress and performance, and to identify specific risk and protective factors. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)The study recruited 500 students who were enrolled in EOD training. These students were enlisted persoimel in the US military who volunteered to participate in the study at two points during the training program. Self-report assessments of potential risk factors were collected at the begiiming of the training program and at one intermediate time point that is associated with the highest level of student attrition. These risk factors included general cognitive ability, inattention and impulsivity, problem solving, anxiety, personality dimensions, social relations, and stressfiil events. In addition, the study explored the role of the demographic, social desirability, and external stressor control It is important to me to say thanks. Also, expressing my gratitude in writing is a way for me to never forget all the ways people have helped me and to remember to look for similar ways to help others. This study required a lot of statistical assistance. Dr. Wijo Kop bore the brunt of this load with multiple meetings and email correspondence. Also, Dr. Martha Faraday also helped with statistical guidance. VlllMy committee provided invaluable assistance. From beginning to end, their involvement has been constructive and facilitative. One example is the v^ay each committee member was willing to work with me to fit this longitudinal study in the five years allotted to military graduate students.