Drill Sergeants’ two contrasting approaches to “soldierization” and instilling healthy eating behaviors in soldiers

Abstract

Adult leaders such as athletic coaches, teachers, and drill sergeants (DS) play a key role in instilling healthy habits as adolescent's transition to adulthood. Positive approaches have been promoted in coaches and teachers, but little is known about DS. This study aimed to understand DS perspectives on instilling healthy eating behaviors in soldiers as part of their overall approach to basic training. In‐depth qualitative interviews conducted with 30 DS at two US Army training bases were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. DS varied in their perceptions of the importance of nutrition, responsibility for promoting nutrition, general approach to training, and integration of nutrition into training. Two general approaches to what DS called “soldierization” emerged. One included mentoring, role modeling, and tailoring strategies to the individual. The other was less responsive to individual differences, and emphasized obedience, discipline, and intimidation. General approaches framed strategies for instilling healthy eating behaviors in soldiers. Many DS currently use such strategies in soldiers that are compatible with best practices used by successful athletic coaches and teachers, but further improvements would potentiate the positive impact that DS could have on soldiers’ health eating behaviors. Funded by Department of Defense.