Factors Determining The Combat Motivation

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The article deals with the issue of combat motivation and generally defines motivation, its types, affecting factors, the so-called “demotivators”, theories underlying motivation (D. Uznadze, A. Maslow, B. Newsome, S. Marshal, D. Grossman, etc.) as well as the mechanisms involved in giving preference to one activity over another. Among different types of motivation, combat motivation is discussed along with achievement motivation, which is of increasing interest to scientists and scholars.

The paper focuses on the similarities and differences between a soldier and a warrior as well as combat motivational factors, personal characteristics, personal traits and experiences, and gender-specific achievements and advantages.

As it is clear from the historical and scientific documents reviewed, the performance of a soldier significantly depends on the leader. The leader is the very person motivating him as the leader helps him to transform his needs into desires. Considering this argument, the paper discusses the so-called “Three Circles” concept.

As the article identifies, the warrior does not necessarily mean a leader. Being a leader does not indispensably imply that he will actively fight in the war, although people who have proved to be warriors in combat often become platoon leaders later on. Training, recent experiences and temperament are important factors in developing a warrior. Training can be considered as an extrinsic factor. As for recent experiences, it is a significant determining factor and those who would like to gain the same experience on their own initiative can be considered warriors. Temperament can be identified as will, inspiration of a warrior and the so-called intrinsic individual factor.

The warrior has a commitment to fight a war, and he conducts war himself. Skills and experiences are of paramount importance among his characteristics. However, their absence can be compensated by courage and bravery. A soldier refers to a person who serves in the army and receives a salary. Combat is a part of his activity but this commitment may not necessarily be his calling.