Resilience Predicts Military Performance and Succession: A Predictive Validity Study of Resilience Inventory for Military (RIM)

Abstract

Emerging research suggests that personality differences and characteristics might mitigate or exacerbate the impact on individual responses to military succession and war-related experiences. These characteristics could be either risk or protective factors. Resilience Inventory for Military (RIM) scale which focuses on protective factors has been developed and validated with in Sri Lankan military context. The aim of this paper is to present the findings of a longitudinal study conducted to establish predictive validity of RIM scale. Ninety-two officer cadets (tri-service) participated in the study and they were assessed with RIM scale in 2015 and followed them up after 6 months with few outcome variables related to military well-being and performance. Those variables were training satisfaction, turn over intention, newcomer adjustment, training performance and mental health status of the trainees. The results demonstrated that those who score high on the RIM scale have a greater adjustment, good level of mental health, less likely to exhibit turnover intention and more satisfied with the training. However, RIM could not predict academic performance of trainees. The findings can help Sri Lankan military forces identify the most resilient candidates for military service and minimise negative behaviour outcomes among military personnel. The approach might also be of use elsewhere.