In a revealing survey by the Department of Defense’s Joint Advertising Marketing Research & Studies, a staggering 90% of young Americans aged 16-24 expressed reluctance towards military service. Amidst concerns, officials and lawmakers highlight the challenge of recruiting in an era where young individuals prioritize different values and opportunities, contrasting sharply with the few who see potential benefits like education, pay, and travel in a military career.
Here are the top 10 reasons, in increasing order, selected by the surveyed Gen-Zers when asked, “What would be the main reason(s) why you would not consider joining the U.S. Military?“
Please note that they could have entered one or more reasons.
#10 Possibility of sexual harassment or assault
For 33% of Gen-Z, the possibility of experiencing sexual harassment or assault in the military deeply impacts their decision not to enlist. This concern reflects their heightened awareness and intolerance for such issues, emphasizing a need for a safer and more respectful environment within military ranks.
#9 Don’t believe I would qualify
Another 33% of Gen-Z feels they might not meet the military’s stringent qualification criteria, reflecting their self-doubt or perceived mismatches in physical, mental, or moral standards. This perception suggests a gap between Gen-Z’s self-assessment and the military’s communicated requirements or values.
#8 Required to live in places I don’t want to live in
For 35% of Gen-Z, the requirement to live in undesirable locations is a significant barrier to military service. This concern highlights their strong preference for autonomy over living conditions and their reluctance to compromise on personal lifestyle choices for career obligations.
#7 Possibility of interference with college education
35% of Gen Z view the potential for military service to disrupt or delay their college education as a major deterrent. This concern reflects their prioritization of academic pursuits and career preparation over immediate enlistment, underscoring their value on higher education for future success.
#6 Too long of a commitment
For 36% of Gen-Z, the prospect of a lengthy commitment to the military is daunting. This reflects their desire for flexibility and the ability to explore different career paths without being tied down for an extended period, highlighting a preference for shorter, more adaptable engagements.
#5 Dislike of the military lifestyle
40% of Gen-Z is deterred by the military’s lifestyle, indicating a significant mismatch between their personal values, daily life preferences, and the strict discipline and regimentation of military life. This aversion suggests a deep-seated need for autonomy and a lifestyle that aligns with their individual identities and values.
#4 Other career interests
A substantial 46% of Gen-Z reports having other career interests that steer them away from the military, signaling a diverse range of aspirations and a keen interest in pursuing professions that perhaps offer more creative freedom, technological innovation, or direct community impact, aligning more closely with their passions and values.
#3 Leaving family and friends
The prospect of leaving family and friends is a significant concern for 58% of Gen-Z, highlighting their deep value on personal relationships and community ties. This reluctance reflects their preference for stability and close-knit support systems over military life’s transient and often isolating nature.
#2 Possibility of PTSD or other emotional & psychological issues
A major concern for 65% of Gen-Z is the risk of developing PTSD or other emotional and psychological issues as a result of military service. This reflects a deep awareness of mental health challenges and a prioritization of psychological well-being, underscoring the need for robust support systems and mental health resources.
#1 Possibility of physical injury or death
The possibility of physical injury or death is the most significant deterrent for 70% of Gen-Z, emphasizing their acute awareness of the risks associated with military service. This concern reflects a prioritization of personal safety and health, highlighting the profound impact of potential physical harm on their willingness to serve.
Who is Eligible to Join the Military?
The Department of Defense created a way to calculate the potential number of young adults who could enlist in the military. According to the 2020 Qualified Military Available study, it was estimated that 23% of Americans between the ages of 17 and 24 met the eligibility criteria for military service. This percentage represented the majority of military applicants and decreased from the 2016 estimate of 29%.
Apart from age and citizenship prerequisites (with some exceptions for non-citizens), individuals applying to the military must satisfy specific standards related to their physical health, education, and criminal record.
