Racial Differences in Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Abstract : This research summarizes results from a special analysis of data from the 1995 administration of the Sample Survey of Military Personnel (SSMP). The analysis identified differences between Black and White Army officers and enlisted personnel on factors related to job satisfaction and intention to commit to a career in the Army. Findings show that Black officers and enlisted personnel are more likely than their White counterparts to be satisfied with certain job characteristics, basic benefits, housing, duty assignments, and overall quality of Army life. Black soldiers also subscribe to more egalitarian attitudes concerning male/female work teams and performance but are more negative about racial discrimination and equal opportunity issues. White officers and enlisted personnel are more likely than Black to report joining the Army from a desire to serve their country, experiencing higber levels of stress and lower levels of personal and unit morale, and believing that males work harder and perform better than females. The analysis also identified racial and gender differences among different groups in the area of career intentions: Black female officers and Black male and female enlisted personnel are more likely than the corresponding White groups to intend to stay in the Army until retirement. In comparison, White female officers and White male and female enlisted personnel are more likely to intend to leave the Army after their present obligation.