Defence and security perspectives on the operationalization, measurement, and training of resilient performance under stress

Abstract

Using a qualitative design, the aim of the current research was to examine specialist defence and security personnel's perspectives on the operationalization, measurement, and training of resilient performance. Specialist personnel working in defence and security settings often have to perform under high levels of demand. To date, few studies have examined the nature of resilient performance in these settings based on in-depth perspectives from personnel themselves. A sample of 17 participants were recruited comprising eight military, three intelligence, and six police firearms personnel. Semi structured interviews were conducted with participants. A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Seven themes were identified, these included: markers of resilient performance (theme 1), enablers (theme 2), and disablers (theme 3) of resilient performance, dynamic resilient performance processes related to resources (theme 4) and demands (theme 5), measuring resilient performance (theme 6), and training resilient performance (theme 7). This paper is the first of its kind to openly report perspectives of resilient performance from those involved with specialist groups within the defence and security community. Findings from this work can aid progress in the study of resilient defence and security performance that helps meet the needs of end-users.