Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 MA graduate in Department of Criminal and Criminology Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Ferdowsi University, Mashhad, Iran
2 Ph.D. in International Law, University of Tehran, Senior Researcher at AJA Center for Strategic Studies,Tehran,Iran
Abstract
Introduction: Social norms, as unwritten rules that guide individual and collective behavior, are fundamental to the preservation of social order and the reduction of deviant acts. Adherence to these norms fosters constructive interactions and supports social stability. Conversely, deviation from these norms can give rise to misconduct and criminal behavior, leading to public disorder and negative consequences. In the military context, soldiers—who embody broader societal values—hold a particularly sensitive and critical position. Their commitment to normative behavior not only affects their own performance but also directly influences the cohesion and effectiveness of military units.
Mandatory military service, often experienced during a formative stage in an individual's life, plays a significant role in shaping personal and social development. However, exposure to the pressures and constraints of the military environment can, if not adequately managed, result in psychological stress, behavioral disorders, and violations of accepted norms. These outcomes can degrade performance, weaken group unity, and damage the reputation of military institutions. This study seeks to explore how external organizational factors contribute to norm violations and deviant behavior among recruits undergoing basic military training. Particular attention is given to the variables of age, educational attainment, economic status, familial attachment, and peer group influence—factors that are believed to significantly affect behavior within the military setting.
Research Objectives: The central aim of the study is to assess the impact of these external factors on soldiers’ tendency to deviate from normative expectations and engage in behaviors that may be classified as criminal. The research specifically investigates the extent to which these variables influence normative adherence, with the objective of equipping military managers and policymakers with evidence-based strategies to prevent deviant behavior and support soldiers' mental health and social integration.
Methodology: Using a descriptive-survey approach, this research was conducted among 541 military recruits enrolled in basic training programs across camps affiliated with the Islamic Republic of Iran Army. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires, which were validated by experts and shown to be reliable via Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The data were analyzed using Smart PLS software. Normative behavior, the dependent variable, was measured using a multi-choice scale, where higher scores indicated a higher level of deviant conduct.
Findings: The findings of the study demonstrate that all of the examined external organizational factors exert a statistically significant influence on soldiers’ normative behavior. Age was found to have an inverse relationship with deviance, indicating that older soldiers are less likely to engage in norm-violating behavior. This result corresponds with theoretical frameworks proposed by Sutherland and Hirschi, which suggest that maturity and improved self-regulation reduce the likelihood of deviance. Education also showed a strong inverse relationship, with higher educational levels associated with lower instances of deviant conduct, thus underscoring the role of cognitive development and academic engagement in fostering conformity. Economic status emerged as another critical variable, as soldiers experiencing financial hardship exhibited higher levels of deviance, a finding supported by Merton’s strain theory and Hagan’s analysis of economic instability. Similarly, strong familial attachment was associated with a lower likelihood of deviance. Soldiers who maintained close family ties were more likely to comply with social norms, a result that aligns with Hirschi’s social bond theory. Among all variables studied, peer group influence was identified as the most direct and significant factor in shaping deviant behavior. Recruits exposed to delinquent peer groups were more likely to adopt similar behaviors, whereas association with norm-abiding peers had a stabilizing effect. This finding supports Sutherland’s differential association theory, which emphasizes the impact of peer interactions on behavioral outcomes.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study reveals that external organizational factors, particularly peer group dynamics, play a decisive role in shaping soldiers' behavioral outcomes during military training. Recognizing the influence of these variables provides valuable insights into the causes of deviance and offers a foundation for intervention. To address these issues, several recommendations can be proposed. Establishing accessible and confidential counseling services with trained mental health professionals can offer recruits critical psychological support. Furthermore, investing in the training of military commanders in areas such as communication, empathy, and conflict resolution can foster a more supportive and less stressful environment. Organizing interactive and social programs—including sports, group workshops, and structured peer engagement—can help strengthen group cohesion and reduce the likelihood of deviant behaviors. In addition, improving the economic conditions of recruits through increased pay and financial incentives can alleviate financial stress and contribute to behavioral stability. Implementing these measures can foster a healthier, more cohesive, and more disciplined military force, thereby enhancing the capacity of military institutions to fulfill their central role in maintaining national security.
Keywords
- deviant behavior
- military service
- external organizational factors
- normative compliance
- military recruits
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