Analysis of body mass index and first-term attrition of Navy enlisted personnel

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Authors
Asonye, Chinomso Elvy
Subjects
attrition
body mass index
manpower
first-term attrition
training
navy
regression analysis
readiness
Advisors
Pema, Elda
Hatch, William
Date of Issue
2017-06
Date
Jun-17
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Sailors often separate from the Navy, despite their best efforts to stay, because they do not meet the Navy's physical standards, which are not always enforced or adequately measured during routine assessments. This research examines the relationship between Navy enlisted recruits' body mass index (BMI) and their likelihood of first-term attrition. A model that controls for characteristic and demographic factors compares the difference between those who enlisted prior to September 11, 2001, and those who enlisted afterward. The data includes sailors who entered up to September 30, 2009, to capture those who would have been able to fulfill a complete four-year term of service. The analysis reviews the possible relationship that exists between the physical standards and attrition. The findings show there is a positive correlation between physical standards and attrition. The research recommends a policy change to the standards for Navy BMI more closely tied with the type of recruits who enter the Navy. Additionally, it is beneficial to look at what types of sailors are exceeding the Navy standard, and their likelihood of attrition. Only the most capable recruits should be entering the service to increase their likelihood of completing their first term.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.
Collections