Warrior Ethos versus Well-Being: Correcting a Cultural Dichotomy

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58315/jcld.v10.249

Keywords:

Well-Being, Warrior Ethos, Army, Mindfullness, Emotional Regulation

Abstract

The Army’s warrior mindset, while crucial for being successful in battle, can also lead to chronic suppression of emotions, and hamper help-seeking behavior. Messages to prioritize well-being are often presented in a confusing juxtaposition to the warrior mindset. In spite of the Army’s emphasis on a “People First Strategy,” accompanied by calls to reduce the stigma associated with help-seeking behaviors, the culture of toughness created by the Warrior Ethos continues to be an imposing obstacle for those in need of help. We integrate the Healthy Minds framework with the Army ethos, to focus on the development of foundational skills: mindfulness, connection, insight, and purpose. Our hope is this framework will contribute to a culture that views the Warrior Ethos and well-being as complementary, rather than conflicting, ideas.

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Author Biographies

Yasmine L. Konheim-Kalkstein, United States Military Academy

Lead Integrator, Character Integration Advisory Group. Associate Professor, Dept. of Behavioral Sciences & Leadership.

Orin Strauchler, United States Military Academy

Holistic Health Integrator, Character Integration Advisory Group. Assistant Professor, Department of Behavioral Sciences & Leadership.

Ryan G. Erbe, United States Military Academy

Emotional Wellness Advisor, Character Integration Advisory Group. Assistant Professor, Dept. of Behavioral Sciences & Leadership.

Brian C. Gerardi, United States Military Academy

US Army Captain. Instructor, Simon Center for Professional Military Ethic.

Jeffrey D. Peterson, United States Military Academy

US Army Retired Colonel. Senior Advisor for Character and Director, Character Integration Advisory Group.

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Published

2022-12-23

How to Cite

Konheim-Kalkstein, Y. L., Strauchler, O., Erbe, R. G., Gerardi, B. C., & Peterson, J. D. (2022). Warrior Ethos versus Well-Being: Correcting a Cultural Dichotomy. Journal of Character and Leadership Development, 10(1), 29–41. https://doi.org/10.58315/jcld.v10.249

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