Dropout Intentions of Soldiers in Mixed-Gender Combat Units: A Longitudinal Examination of the Integration Process

The current study presents a longitudinal analysis of the gender integration process in mixed-gender combat units by focusing on the antecedents of dropout intentions. A total of 295 men and women soldiers participated in the study, completing questionnaires at three points during eight months of basic and advanced combat training process. The results revealed a converging similarity between men’s and women’s dropout intentions over time. Perceived physical health and unit prestige contributed significantly to dropout intentions at T1 and T2. In addition, soldier perception of unit prestige negatively predicted dropout intentions at T1 but was non-significant at T2 and T3. Furthermore, masculine norms predicted dropout intentions at T2 but were non-significant at T3. The findings suggest the occurrence of a gradual socialization and self-selecting out process during training. We discuss the results through a gender lens and consider the applications of this research for reducing dropout intentions in gender-integrated combat units.