Thickening the global SOF Network

Abstract

Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the competence to identify and express emotions, understand emotions, assimilate emotions in thought, and regulate both positive and negative emotions in oneself and others. EI is a necessary, but not fully sufficient, quality Green Berets must possess to establish, nurture, and enhance effective relationships within the joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational arena. As the Special Forces Regiment transitions from intensive participation in operations supporting the Global War on Terrorism to developing the forward-focused Global Special Operations Forces Network, thickening these critical relationships emerges as the foundation of any expected future success. This thesis strives to elucidate the substantial scientific evidence establishing EI as a critical and well-deserving addition to the traditional measures of competence, such as intelligence quotients and general personality. Specifically, the author demonstrates that the skills and abilities associated with EI were deemed most critical by the Office of Strategic Services assessment staff, and that these same skills remain key competencies for accomplishing partner-based special operations today. The author recommends practical changes to the current assessment and selection of Special Forces personnel, as well as for the training and placement of selected Soldiers.