An Exploratory Study of Public Service Motivation and the Institutional–Occupational Model of the Military. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, Jami K.; Clerkin, Richard M.; Ngaruiya, Katherine M.; Velez, Anne-Lise Knox
• Is Part Of: Armed forces and society. Volume 41:Number 1(2015:Jan.)
• Page Start: 142
• Page End: 162
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: public service motivation -- institutional–occupational model -- recruitment and retention; Sociology, Military -- Periodicals; Sociology, Military -- United States -- Periodicals; Armed Forces -- Periodicals; United States -- Armed Forces -- Periodicals; 306.27
• DOI: 10.1177/0095327X13489119
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0095-327X

Abstract

This article empirically connects Moskos' Institutional–Occupational model to the large body of cross-nationally validated research on public service motivation (PSM). We find that in our sample, the PSM construct is positively correlated with institutional motivations that reflect Moskos' insights. We also find evidence that the four dimensions of PSM (Attraction to Public Participation, Commitment to Public Values, Self-sacrifice, and Compassion) may offer a more nuanced way to assess institutional motivations. Our research suggests that those interested in military recruitment/retention/performance and public administration scholars may have much to learn from each other. We call for further research in this area.