The Behaviours of Veterans and Where they come from

The CSBR Model: How Conditioning Shapes Military Personnel's Values and Behaviors

Introduction

In the world of psychology and human behavior, the CSBR model - Conditioning, State (of mind), Behavior, and Result - offers a framework to understand how individuals are shaped by their experiences and how these experiences influence their outwardly portrayed behaviors. This model is particularly relevant when examining the transformation of military personnel during basic training, where individuals undergo rigorous conditioning to instill new beliefs and behaviors that form the foundation of their military values. This, in turn, profoundly affects their state of mind and how they interact with the world.

Conditioning in Basic Training

Basic training is a foundational step in the military journey, and it is characterized by rigorous conditioning. Military personnel are subjected to a structured and intense environment that aims to break down existing beliefs and behaviors while instilling new ones. The process involves physical training, discipline, and repetitive drills to create a sense of uniformity and adherence to the military's core values.

Conditioning is a fundamental aspect of the CSBR model, as it serves as the initial step in shaping an individual's behavior. Through a combination of positive and negative reinforcement, basic training conditions military personnel to respond swiftly and efficiently to orders, fostering discipline and obedience as critical traits.

The Formation of Values

As individuals progress through basic training, they are exposed to a set of values and principles that are central to military life. These values often include loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, collectively known as the Army Values in the United States.

The British Army operates under a set of core values and standards known as the "British Army Values and Standards." These values are designed to guide the behavior and actions of all personnel within the army. The seven core values of the British Army are:

1. Loyalty: To be loyal to the nation, the Army, and one's comrades. This includes maintaining trust and support for fellow soldiers and units.

2. Integrity: To act with honesty and integrity, both in personal and professional life, and to maintain the highest moral and ethical standards.

3. Courage: To have the physical and moral courage to face and overcome adversity and to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

4. Discipline: To maintain self-discipline and ensure the discipline of the unit, including adherence to orders and regulations.

5. Respect for Others: To treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of rank, background, or any other factors.

6. Selfless Commitment: To put the needs of the team, mission, and others above personal interests and to be committed to the welfare of the nation and fellow soldiers.

7. Integrity: To show personal and moral courage in all actions, and to be honest and reliable in all dealings.

These values are integral to the British Army's ethos and guide the behavior and conduct of all its members, from the highest-ranking officers to the newest recruits. They are intended to create a strong and cohesive military organization built on trust, honor, and a commitment to the service of the nation.

Basic training is where these values are introduced and woven into the fabric of a recruit's identity.

New behaviors, such as teamwork, self-sacrifice, and commitment, are instilled to align with these values. The CSBR model demonstrates that conditioning shapes behavior, leading recruits to internalize these new behaviors as part of their military persona.

The Impact on State of Mind

The state of mind of an individual plays a pivotal role in their behavior and actions. In the context of military training, the transition from civilian life to the military world often results in significant shifts in one's state of mind. As recruits adapt to the demands of their new environment, they undergo a transformation in their thinking and emotional responses.

The conditioning experienced in basic training influences the state of mind of military personnel. They develop a strong sense of duty and commitment, often prioritizing the mission and their comrades over personal needs. The challenges they face in training cultivate mental resilience and a heightened awareness of the consequences of their actions.

Portrayal of Behaviors

The final stage of the CSBR model is the outwardly portrayed behaviors. The conditioning received in basic training, coupled with the values that have been instilled, manifest in the way military personnel conduct themselves in both training and operational environments. Their behavior aligns with the military's core values, reflecting discipline, teamwork, and dedication to the mission.

These behaviors serve as a visible representation of the individual's state of mind, which has been molded by their conditioning and internalization of military values. When faced with high-stress situations, military personnel rely on their training to make quick and calculated decisions, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their comrades and mission.

Conclusion

The CSBR model, encompassing Conditioning, State, Behavior, and Result, provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how military personnel are transformed during basic training. Through conditioning, individuals adopt new behaviors and values that ultimately shape their state of mind. This, in turn, is portrayed through their behaviors, reflecting the discipline, dedication, and commitment required of those who serve in the military.

The military's ability to condition and instill values in its personnel is instrumental in maintaining a disciplined and effective fighting force. This model serves as a valuable tool for both understanding and appreciating the profound impact of basic training on the men and women who choose to serve their countries in the armed forces.