2003 IMTA Proceedings - International Military Testing Association

44
THE SCOPE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST SYSTEMS WITHIN THE
AUSTRIAN ARMED FORCES
Dr. Christoph Brugger
Austrian Armed Forces Military Psychology Service
Vienna, Austria
hpa.hpd@bmlv.gv.at
ABSTRACT
During his or her career, a soldier in the Austrian Armed Forces has to pass several
psychological tests. Since Austria will also be involved in supporting future WEU missions,
changes in preconditions are reflected in the test systems applied. The integration of existing
and planned selection systems into the typical career, beginning from recruitment to peace
support operations or pilot selection is shown.
Some more detail will be offered concerning the computer based test systems used in the
induction centers as well as problems arising with harmonization of selection for peace
support operations and selection of forces earmarked for international operations.
INTRODUCTION
Most papers on testing cover specific methodological issues or aspects of individual tests, but
almost never the integration of test systems within an organization is shown in detail. Even
though many people are interested in such aspects and often ask questions on how such
systems are implemented in the individual countries, there exists very little information in this
field. Based on these observations, the present state as well as some related problems within
the Austrian Armed Forces will be presented.
FACTS ABOUT THE AUSTRIAN ARMED FORCES
For better understanding of the following some facts about Austria and the Austrian Armed
Forces are presented first:
• Austria is a small country. To reach the necessary strength Austria’s defense is based on a
conscript and militia /reserve system.
• Military service in Austria is compulsory. Every young man at an age of about 18 has to
visit one of the six induction centers, where after a detailed examination a commission
decides on whether he is fit for military service or not.
• Persons not fit for the army will drop out of this system. All others have the option to
chose alternative service with a civilian Non Profit Organization. Alternative service lasts
significantly longer than military service to limit excessive losses of recruited personnel.
• Military service lasts either 8 months, or 7 months plus 3 times 10 days of reserve recalls,
usually every two years.
• Austria has a long tradition of participation in Peace Support Operations of the United
Nations. PSO personnel consists of volunteers only, professional soldiers as well as
members of the militia.
45 th Annual Conference of the International Military Testing Association
Pensacola, Florida, 3-6 November 2003