Second life : from Kiwi soldier to civilian : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
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Date
2016
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Massey University
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Abstract
Experiences of sixteen former New Zealand (NZ) Army soldiers and officers were
analysed to investigate the transition from NZ Army service to civilian life. All
participants completed demographic questionnaires and participated in semi-structured
interviews. Thematic analysis was used to identify and interpret patterns in relation to
the research question. Analysis indicated that transition from the NZ Army is an
experience comprising a search for personal meaning, vocational and identity
adaptations, and social support in various forms. Having joined the NZ Army to fulfil
personal incentives, soldiers realise career aspirations through the application of their
skills during overseas missions and other activities. The transition process, which begins
with disidentification and a manifest desire to leave, includes a search for rewarding
employment beyond the NZ Army. Former soldiers use education, as well as personal
strengths gained during service, to achieve vocational goals. Social aspects of the
transition experience include poor leadership and disappointing farewells, fuelling
discontent toward the NZ Army. In contrast, camaraderie between soldiers is a
memorable and valued element of the NZ Army career. Having left the NZ Army,
individuals experience a loss of this bond, negotiating personal identities while drawing
on social support to successfully manage transitional challenges.
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Keywords
Veteran reintegration, Veterans, Employment, Psychology, New Zealand, Research Subject Categories::SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Psychology::Applied psychology