We will explore how the behavioral standards of conscripts reflect short-term survival strategies, while contract soldiers exhibit long-term role internalization. Specifically, we will examine how these two types of military personnel differ in their attitudes towards authority, discipline, and group dynamics.
Conscripts
Conscripts are individuals who have been forced into service against their will, usually through mandatory conscription laws. They often feel resentful towards their commanders and fellow troops because they were not given a choice to enlist voluntarily. As such, they may engage in disruptive behavior that challenges authority figures and undermines order within the unit. This includes breaking rules, questioning orders, and refusing to follow instructions. In addition, conscripts tend to prioritize individual goals over collective ones, which can lead to conflict with other members of the unit.
Conscripts' behavior reflects a focus on immediate survival needs rather than long-term objectives.
Contract Soldiers
Contract soldiers, on the other hand, are recruited by choice and typically receive higher pay and benefits than conscripts. They tend to be more loyal to their commanders and more willing to accept authority because they know that they chose to join the military.
Contract soldiers may seek out friendships within the unit as a way to build social support networks. This can create stronger cohesion among the team and make them more effective at completing missions.
Contract soldiers' behavior reflects a longer-term perspective and a commitment to the organization.
The behavioral standards of conscripts and contract soldiers reflect different approaches to survival strategies. While conscripts may act in ways that prioritize short-term needs, contract soldiers adopt behaviors that promote long-term success and integration into the group. Understanding these differences is important for leaders in the military and beyond, who must balance the needs of individuals with those of the larger organization.
In what ways do the behavioral standards of conscripts reflect short-term survival strategies, while contract soldiers exhibit long-term role internalization?
Conscripts rely on short-term survival strategies because they lack any sense of personal commitment or investment in their service. This is evident in their willingness to adopt dangerous behaviors that are not typically endorsed by society at large, such as stealing, gambling, drug abuse, and violence.