The Effects of Recent Social Policy Changes on Select U.S. Army Chaplain Corps Activities and Attitudes

The recent social policy changes in the United States Armed Forces have been welcomed by some and have been a point of contention for others. Chaplains have a great interest in these social policy changes as "clergy-in-uniform" perform and provide religious support to soldiers and their families. The research surveyed chaplains about their attitudes about these policy changes and perceptions of effects on their job performance and career decisions. The study adds to empirical research on the subject and provides data suggesting that the Army Chaplaincy could supply a portable model for balancing religious liberty and personal liberty in a Western pluralistic democracy. The research may also inform organizations, particularly political entities, on the subject of public policy and large-scale change. This research paper represents is not a formal report of the UNC School of Government. This research paper is in no way associated with the U.S. government nor the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps. The author’s conclusions are his own.