Canadian Forces Training and Mental Preparation for Adversity: Empirical Review of Stoltz 'Adversity Quotient (AQ) Training for Optimal Response to Adversity', A Review of the AQ Literature and Supporting Studies

摘要

This report reviews the theory of the Adversity Quotient (AQ), and the associated training procedure developed by Stoltz (1997; 2000). This report covers three general areas. First, we present an overview of the AQ conceptual framework and training program. Second, the psychometric properties of the AQ are reviewed to determine if the proposed conceptual framework is supported quantitatively. Third, we critically review the current empirical literature associated with AQ. We also discuss the applicability of the AQ training procedure to the CF, in particular, the utility of current AQ training as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PT SD), learned helplessness, and to augment leadership training in a military context. Finally, we provide recommendations for the CF with regards to the proposed implementation of the AQ training as a proactive intervention. A critical review of the AQ and associated literature revealed that AQ is based on a number of sound theories implicated in psychological resiliency. However, while the AQ framework and training program may possess face validity in an industrial/organizational context, to date there is lack of empirical literature substantiating both the validity of the AQ framework and the training program in important ways. Thus, the implementation of current AQ training into a military environment must be approached with great prudence. It is recommended that all training materials require significant modification to be applicable to a military context, and that any implementation of a modified training program in the CF be accompanied by rigorous and independent program evaluation.