A statistical analysis of the career intentions of mobilized Navy enlisted selected reservists (SELRES)

Abstract

This thesis examines the career intentions of mobilized Navy enlisted selected reservists (SELRES). A logistic regression model is estimated to explain the effects of mobilization on reservists' intentions to stay to retirement. The statistical analysis uses data from the 2002-2004 Naval Reserve Career Decision Survey, which provides information on the demographics, reserve characteristics, and mobilization experiences of currently or recently mobilized enlisted SELRES members. Results indicate that mobilization experiences (previously mobilized, command leadership at the gaining command, assigned to an interesting job, effect on civilian job, and the difference in pay between active and active duty pay while mobilized) are significant factors influencing a mobilized SELRES member's intention to stay to retirement. However, only a few of the demographic and reserve characteristics significantly impact a SELRES member's career intentions. Recommendations for expanding data collection and for follow-on studies are provided and implications for Navy SELRES mobilization policy are discussed.