Psychology and the Soldier

Originally published in 1927, this book contains the text of lectures delivered to Cambridge undergraduates between 1920 and 1926, which demonstrate the possible applications of psychological techniques to the training and deployment of soldiers. Bartlett examines features in the life of a soldier, including fatigue and the effects of battle, and offers some suggestions on how modern psychology can better be employed in the service of the army. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the history of psychology and the role psychology can play in the armed forces.

Preface; General introduction; Part I. Choosing and Training the Recruit: 1. The general examination: testing the special senses; 2. The general examination: testing intelligence; 3. Tests of special abilities; 4. Training bodily skill; 5. Practice and motives in learning bodily skill; 6. The study of fatigue; Part II. Leadership, Discipline and Morale: 1. Appetite and instinct groups; 2. Interest, sentiment, and ideal groups; 3. The nature and importance of social change; 4. Discipline and punishment; 5. Discipline and suggestion; 6. Leaders and leadership; 7. Morale, with special reference to group games; Part III. Mental Disorders of Warfare: 1. The general background; 2. The normal soldier in war; 3. Conversion hysteria; 4. Anxiety neurosis; 5. Predisposing conditions; 6. Methods of treatment; A review and some suggestions.