Military Psychology for Africa

Abstract

The African life philosophy of ubuntu is about two aspects ubu and ntu, and constitutes a wholeness and oneness (Ramose, 2002).1 Modern psychology has until very recently entailed oneness with its Western ideas and approaches (Sinha, 1986).2 In South Africa, psychologists’ interventions often lack “the necessary broader contextual focus needed to address social problems” (wholeness).3 The challenge posed to African psychologists has been to work proactively towards combining theory building and practical knowledge application within the indigenous African context. Only through the exploration of contextually relevant research, can there be influence. This book fills a long-awaited void in South African and African military psychology in its contextual contribution, both in terms of theory and practice under the guidance of Professor Van Dyk. Prof. Van Dyk has, for many decades, dedicated his time and his research findings towards making a contribution to knowledge building within the South African Military Psychology community. Twenty-two years into democracy, this book Military psychology for Africa brings ‘wholeness’ for African soldiers, their families, psychological scientists, university scholars and practitioners. The scope of this book is holistic and covers all the critical areas of military psychology, enabling a wide audience to gain insight into the key areas of involvement for military psychologists in Africa. In addition to delivering rich factual as well as contextual information, this book serves as a unique academic reference to contemporary and up-to-date military psychology issues on the African continent. The book consists of seven main sections, divided into 20 chapters ranging from the context of modern warfare within the African continent to selection of soldiers, military personnel and associated civil servants, the work readiness and career management of the African soldier, psychological well-being, the effect of trauma on body and mind, and a fascinating description of a culturally relevant ubuntu-based approach in trauma treatments. There is a chapter devoted to military family support and work readiness, and finally a chapter on the personality profile of the African leader within the modern African operational context.