Study of Reasons for Not Reenlisting: First-Term Marines in Critical Occupations.

摘要

This thesis determines the primary reasons why first-term enlistees assigned to critical occupations decide against reenlisting in the Marine Corps. The reasons given for not reenlisting are determined by analyzing responses to the Marine Corps Enlisted Separation Questionnaire over the period of fiscal year 1985 through fiscal 1989 (third quarter). Questionnaire responses are analyzed using cross-tabulations and frequency distributions according to demographic characteristics (marital status, gender, race, and pay grade) and occupational skill requirements. The results suggest that, for most Marines, lace of promotion opportunity is the main reason for not reenlisting. Other reasons vary by demographic and occupational skills groups. Family separation influences the decisions of women and E-5s, while Marines in more technical specialties are more concerned with compensation. Reenlistment incentives are evaluated using the results of this study. Recommendations are offered to improve current incentives and the criteria for reenlistment. Keywords: Reenlistment, Separation, Personnel retention, Critical occupations, First-term marines, Enlisted separation questionnaire, Exit surveys, Reenlistment incentives, Selective reenlistment bonus, Theses. (cp)