SWEDISH OFFICERS – HIGHER RANK, LESS UNIT COHESION

Abstract

The military is considered one of the most cohesive organisations in our society because of its cohesion, organisational identification, and commitment to the group. Furthermore, a military organisation is characterised by a strong set of norms and behaviours. Militaries are often part of a large, longstanding organisation that is rather isolated, hierarchical and highly regulated. The aim of this interview study was to explore the descriptions of unit cohesion among experienced Swedish officers. Results show that the way that unit cohesion changes during a military career can be understood from the following four overriding categories: entering the military, downsizing, family, and the changing character of work. In the first category, unit cohe sion and the experience of joining a military unit at a young age are explored. The following three categories focus on officers’ reflections on how unit cohesion and the sense of community has altered during their careers. Future research should address the topic of downsizing in relation to unit cohesion. Furthermore, qualita tive research should explore the altering stages of unit cohesion during officers’ mili tary career paths. The changing character of work is also a topic for further study as values in society are shifting and the characteristics of work are subject to an ongoing progress. In general, it seems like the things that initially made individuals apply to the Swedish Armed Forces (SAF) and begin employment will start to fade away when one rises higher in the hierarchical system.