Air University Review, January-February 1985
DR. Roger A. Beaumont's article on "inoculating" for surprise has two main points. * The first––that military surprise is a common psychological experience––is in accord with history and psychological research. The second that "stress inoculation" leads to more effective functioning after surprise in a crisis––must be very carefully qualified.
*Dr. Roger A. Beaumont, "Certain Uncertainty: Inoculating for Surprise,"Air University Review, July-August 1984, pp. 8-16.
Psychological research clearly shows that stressful training may have a number of possible outcomes. Presenting a carefully graduated sequence of fear-provoking stimuli (i.e., systematic desensitization) can increase future stress tolerance. Presenting a moderate amount of depression-provoking stimuli (i.e., the Velten procedure) may lead to temporary performance decrements with no lasting effects whatsoever. Presenting an amassed amount of fear-provoking stimuli (i.e., implosive therapy) or ensuring that behavior has no relationship with reinforcement (i.e., the learned helplessness paradigm) may lead to chronic performance decrements in future situations.
Psychological research also shows that the best training techniques leading to effective performance after surprise in a crisis may not involve "stress inoculation" at all. Instead, the best approach might be to overlearn predictable mission behaviors and internalize the attitude that "I am the best and can handle the unexpected." There also are experimental training modules shaping flexibility and creativity that may have potential. What's more, there are other experimental approaches to prevent being surprised, as opposed to picking up the pieces.
Lastly, psychological research suggests that different techniques will work with different people. There is no "one way" or "magic pill."
Dr. Beaumont makes some excellent points in his article. However, before we jump on the bandwagon of "no pain, no gain," we should consult the psychological literature.
Fort Detrick, Maryland
Major Bloom is Medical Intelligence Program Manager at the Armed Forces Medical Intelligence Center, Fort Detrick, Maryland.
Disclaimer
The conclusions and opinions expressed in this document are those of the author cultivated in the freedom of expression, academic environment of Air University. They do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, the United States Air Force or the Air University.
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