3. Cultural Aptitude and Shock Study, DARPA, Final Report July 2006
SA is exploring methodologies, techniques and technologies to increase and sustain warfighters' operational effectiveness in culturally diverse environments. The focus of the current study is to a) develop the capability to identify and select personnel that possess cultural aptitude for positions requiring a high level of cultural sensitivity; and b) develop techniques for mitigating the effects of culture shock on warfighters in order to maximize the benefits of pre-deployment cultural training and avoid degradation of situational awareness and force protection in-theater. The first of these requirements targets select personnel needed for specific missions requiring high levels of cultural aptitude. The second is relevant to all warfighters who are deployed on a wide range of missions, but in particular to young and recently enlisted personnel.
Dr. Steve Wax
Executive Vice President and Chief Technical Officer
Science & Technology Consulting
