Factors Affecting Reenlistment of Reservists: Spouse and Employer Attitudes and Perceived Unit Environment

Abstract : This report presents findings from research that analyzes the reenlistment behavior of Selected Reservists who are making early to mid-career reenlistment decisions. Low reenlistment rates imply a loss of the training investment made during the first term and higher accession and training costs for reserve forces. Low reenlistment rates also have a direct impact on the experience level of personnel in reserve units, and, therefore, on the readiness of the units, although, of course, te level of training and readiness in the units may well have an impact on reenlistment. Predicted reenlistment rates are also an important input into determining accession requirements and the associated planning of recruiting and training resources. The research will support better predictions of reenlistment by identifying the factors important in reenlistment decisions and the magnitude of their effects. In contrast to the more traditional moonlighting models that emphasize the relationship between economic variables (primary wage rate, hours worked on the primary job, moonlighting wage, etc.) and the decision to moonlight, this analysis highlights the importance of attitudinal variables as well as the unit environment in the reenlistment decision.