Date of Award

Spring 5-1-2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Criminology & Criminal Justice

First Advisor

Shannon M. Barton

Second Advisor

Amy Craddock

Third Advisor

Phillip Shon

Abstract

Research was conducted to determine factors contributing to job satisfaction among US Air Force Security Forces personnel. Previous research conducted prior to major structural changes within the career field in 1997 and increased operations tempo due to the Global War on Terror was of questionable current pertinence. Job satisfaction has been shown to directly affect retention and performance. Retention is extremely important within the career field due to a personnel shortage of 8,000 troops. The current research closely followed the research design used by Michael Reiner to assess job satisfaction in the career field in 1997, and compares current findings with Reiner's initial findings. Questionnaires using tools and terminology from the Job Descriptive Index and Job Diagnostic Survey were distributed to voluntary participants at two large Security Forces units. All data collection was completely confidential. Data collected was analyzed using statistical regression analysis. No demographic factors were found to have a direct effect on job satisfaction. Rank indirectly affects job satisfaction, with higher ranking personnel reporting more job satisfaction than lower ranking personnel. The factor found to most directly affect job satisfaction is feedback from the job itself; or the opportunity to perform duties which provide a sense of accomplishment. Higher ranking personnel are more likely to perform such duties. Time in service and autonomy were also found to affect job satisfaction. Again, higher ranking personnel are more likely to experience these factors. Information gained from this research will be useful in the planning of programs and policies to affect retention in the Security Forces career field.

Download

Share

COinS