reply to each post with 100 words as if you are me and reply hello (person name)

reply to each post with 100 words as if you are me and reply hello (person name)
no generic replies. Each reply should have seprate references 
post 1
Alissa King posted Jul 1, 2024 6:50 AM
Part I
Hi everyone! 
My name is Alissa (they/them pronouns). I am really excited to be in this class. I am taking some classes “for fun” and this is one that really intrigued me. I am a civilian, but often work with military personnel in my full-time job, which is in an educational field. Because of this, I thought it would benefit me to have an academic sense of the psychological aspects of military life and deployment. 
I am originally from Iowa and still live here, though I have lived in other states and in Australia for a short time in my early 20s. In addition to my full-time job, I own a wellness business which includes a gym where I train clients. I facilitate yoga events, and I curate and lead international wellness retreats as it fits into my schedule. I joke that I live in a petting zoo/greenhouse since I have 260 indoor plants plus four dogs, four cats, and seven nearly four-week-old chickens (the chickens live outside). 
In addition to coursework, my career, pets, and various side hustles, I love to travel, read, eat, workout, meditate, listen to true crime podcasts, and I enjoy “family movie nights” with my animals and a hot (or cold) cup of tea. 
My learning goals for this class are: 
To dive deep into deployment psychology to learn what it is and how I can apply it to my personal and professional life.
To enjoy being in the student role again and engage with my classmates in a collaborative way.
I am taking several psychology courses, so I am looking forward to investigating how each of the courses I’ve chosen intersect and inform one another to help me gain a broader base of knowledge. 
Part II
While the purpose of basic training may be to eliminate individuality and encourage cohesion, it also appears, based on this week’s literature, that it is a screening opportunity for leadership to determine who has grit, character strength, and psychological hardiness (Matthews, 2009). While I have never experienced basic training, my massage therapist was in the Air Force and two of my personal training clients were also in the military. All talked about basic training and the role it had in breaking people down to resocialize them during the rebuilding process. During the rebuilding process, instilling the LDRSHIP elements may result in a selfless culture; after all, service members are willing to sacrifice their life for their country and their comrades (APUS, n.d.). The collective message of LDRSHIP is to put the group over the individual. This is how I view it:  
Loyalty to country (not self)
Duty to obligations (not self)
Respect of others (and self, but others first)
Selfless service (everyone is before you)
Honor (if you violate this, you are dishonorable)
Integrity (moral component)
Courage (moral and physical)
I can see this set of values being an effective strategy to frame in-group norms and identify/sanction deviant behavior that could put others (comrades, branch, country) at risk. Being in the military offers community, belonging, branding, identity, trauma-bonding, trust, and “siblinghood” (because it’s no longer just brotherhood).   
References
APUS. (n.d.). Week 1: Introduction and Foundation of Deployment Psychology. In PSYC513: Deployment psychology: Summer 2024 [Lesson]. Retrieved from https://myclassroom.apus.edu/d2l/
Matthews, M. D. (2009). Mind: Motivation, mindset, and attitude. In A. Freeman, S. M. Freeman, & B. A. Moore (Eds.), Living and surviving in harm’s way: A psychological treatment handbook for pre- and post-deployment of military personnel (pp. 9-26). Taylor & Francis Group.
Post 2
JUAN PENA posted Jul 1, 2024 1:53 PM
Greetings, 
My name is Juan Gabriel, but I go by Gabe.  I am from Texas. I’m enrolled in a dual master’s program (AMU’s Military and Trauma Psychology master program, and a master’s in Thanatology with Marian University of Fond Du Lac. The reason for this ambitious decision is based on my end goal; to become a suicidologist and trauma researcher/consultant, and possibly a clinician. It is alarming the rate of military service members who commit suicide due to a myriad of causes. Hence, the reason for this course and the thanatology program.
My academic goals do not conclude with AMU. They are simple, attain the appropriate degrees, and put them to use altruistically. With that said, my learning goal is to learn the fundamental nature of this class so I can be an asset to those in need. My interests fall into two categories, family, and lifelong learning. 
I served in the Marine Corps as an infantryman for 23 years, with experience in different fields within the military (i.e., weapons instructor, faculty advisor, safety officer, hazardous materials technician, embassy attaché, suicide, substance abuse prevention trainer, high-risk trainer, etc.). I deployed to combat and non-combat zones respectively. I later became a Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) instructor for about 4 years post-military retirement at a local high school in South Texas. I’m also a certified and authorized OSHA safety and health instructor in the General Industry, a passion that began while serving in the military. I’m happily married to my wife (a former Marine) and have two wonderful kids we homeschool/ unschool full-time. 
In simple terms, morals and values are not only vital for the service member for deployments but for the overall attainment of organizational goals within the Department of Defense. Regardless of the branch of service, the LDRSHIP acronym becomes the code of ethics, meaning the way the service member is expected to behave (AMU, n.d.). How does the acronym LDRSHIP fit in for deployments?
Depending on and regardless of the type of deployment, the service member will experience change. The family dynamics will change, training demands, fast tempo, quick adaptation to new TTPs (tactics, techniques, and procedures), SOP (standard operating procedures), and other requirements, and change to new leadership (chain of command). Nevertheless, the aforementioned is encompassed within the phases of deployment (i.e., pre, during, post, and reintegration deployment) (AMU, n.d.).
Furthermore, these changes can affect everyone involved (i.e., the soldier and social circles, etc.), therefore, the LDRSHIP acronym can greatly assist with directing the expected behavior of the soldier while deployed (of course, there are exceptions). LDRSHIP values are not enough to solicit certain behaviors from the service member, according to Mouporgillo et al. (2009). To better understand the soldier’s mindset will require an in-depth analysis of their character development and framework (Mouporgillo et al., 2009). I would argue that character, morals, and values begin within their families and communities. Mouporgillo et al. (2009) proposed a compelling argument highlighting justice, responsibility, civility, parenting, purpose, and tolerance as the bedrock of a positive organization or institution. The latter echoes my argument that such traits begin before joining the military service. 
Moreover, in the case of the Army, the LDRSHIP values are critical and practical for any point in their military career. For example, without Loyalty the soldier can stray away from his/her sworn allegiance to the United States (Oath of Enlistment/Officer). An example of this would be the former Marine Sergeant Clayton Longtree who engaged with Soviet agents by giving them blueprints of the American embassy building in Moscow (Schmitt, 1987). 
Duty is the ability to fulfill certain responsibilities vital for mission accomplishment and often interlinked with self-discipline. For example, a soldier who decides to not return to their home station (i.e., Fort Benning, GA) after 30 days of leave, will be considered AWOL (absent without leave), thereby failing to fulfill their duty, and often charged with article 85. Desertion (UCMJ, n.d.). 
Respect is the essence of any human being in any environment, especially the military. Soldiers or service members deployed will encounter different cultures, attitudes, and social rules, so it is key for them to adapt, and showing respect is a great start. A defiant soldier can also get reprimanded and sometimes charged with Article 89- Disrespect toward a Super Commission officer (UCMJ, n.d.). Of course, it will depend on the situation at hand. 
Selfless service is the bedrock of the military service member. Each of them volunteers to serve their country in a different capacity. When we refer to soldiers, we include all ranks, not just the entry-level service members. For example, a high-ranking soldier who sets a toxic leadership environment to attain his/her personal goals is considered selfish, an anathema to the appropriate military conduct (Reed, 2002). On the contrary, a service member who places his/her interests aside reflects selfless commitment (AMU, n.d.). 
Honor can be manifested in different ways. It is how the soldier embraces the Army’s essence. When a service member leaves the service with an impeccable record, his/her DD 214 Form (discharge form from any branch of service) will denote the word honor as Honorable discharge, dishonorable discharge, etc. (Thiesen, 2023). Without honor, the Army’s fabric cannot withstand internal and external friction. 
Integrity takes the form of an ethical concept. As a kid, I was taught to always be honest, and never lie. My mother would say “I rather hear the truth from you even if I don’t like it, than hear a lie.” This concept followed me throughout my career in the military. Any of these concepts before us are like seeds. We need to plant them, water them, and nurture them. Otherwise, they will die when we stop nurturing them. Later in my career, I was selected for Embassy duty.  A rigorous program that required a TS/ SCI (top secret sensitive compartmentalized information) (DIA, n.d.). Had I not exercised integrity throughout my life (not just my career) I would not have attained one of the highest security clearances within the federal government.
Lastly, personal courage is an integral part of mission success. In combat, I witnessed courageous Marines advancing toward enemy forces with little disregard for their own life (physical courage). I also witnessed the opposite. A Marine froze up during a TIC (troops in contact) in Iraq and was immediately safeguarded by another Marine for his own sake. Furthermore, moral courage failure example is Lieutenant William Calley (U.S. Army) in charge of the company of soldiers who massacred unarmed women, and children during the Vietnam War (American Experience, 2024). Not only did the lieutenant lack the moral courage to stop the carnage but also any of the soldiers did anything to cease their horrific actions toward the My Lai village residents (American Experience. 2024).   
Without a doubt, military service represents a positive environment institution where soldiers are expected to conduct themselves according to its LDRSHIP values. While basic training initiates these important traits, it is up to each soldier to nurture each of them to help the mission succeed. 
Good luck to all of you in this class. 
I look forward to learning from you and with you.
Gabe
References
AMU (n.d.). Week 1: Introduction and foundation of deployment psychology. Army values. American Military University. https://myclassroom.apus.edu/d2l/le/enhancedSequenceViewer/204926?url=https%3A%2F%2Ff54cbe36-23a9-4505-85fe-e251f80ec34d.sequences.api.brightspace.com%2F204926%2Factivity%2F14711881%3FfilterOnDatesAndDepth%3D1
DIA (n.d.). Defense Intelligence Agency. Security clearance process. DIA. https://www.intelligencecareers.gov/dia/security-clearance-process
Mouporgillo, F. S., Moore, B. A., & Freeman, A. (Eds.). (2009). Living and surviving in harm’s way: A psychological treatment handbook for pre- and post-deployment of military personnel. Taylor & Francis Gr.
Reed, George. (2002). Toxic Leadership. Parameters: journal of the US Army War College. 32. 115-127.
Schmitt, E. (1987, April 15). Roots of young marines in spy case: Little hint of the unusual. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1987/04/15/us/roots-of-young-marines-in-spy-case-little-hint-of-the-unusual.html
Theisen, T. (2023, November 06). Honorable discharge: Everything you need to know. Military Advantage. https://www.military.com/benefits/military-legal/honorable-discharge-everything-you-need-know.html
post 3
Nodira Saidova-Ridley posted Jul 1, 2024 6:42 PM
Aloha Classmates and Dr. Flowers, 
Part 1 Introduction
I am Nodira Saidova-Ridley. I go by Nodira. I am from Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is located in the heart of Central Asia and is famous for numerous architectural monuments, incredible natural landscapes, magnificent palaces, outstanding cultural events, gastronomic delights, and famous craft workshops. I grew up in a multicultural, international, and multilingual environment. I am fully trilingual, and English is my third language.
I currently live in Hawaii, on the island of Oahu, and have for over 18 years. I absolutely enjoy island beaches, the stunning coastline, semi-tropical weather, culture and history, beautiful mountains, and the Aloha spirit.
I work for the DoD Department of Defense at Pearl Harbor for the Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet as the ADCO Alcohol and Drug Control Officer and as the SPPM Suicide Prevention Program Manager.
Currently, I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Special/Exceptional Education. I want to pursue my Master Degree in Psychology. I believe strongly that an extra level of education gives me the chance to sharpen my research skills, build my professional network, and set myself apart from my peers. Critically, this also gives me the foundation I need to conduct or apply psychological research that ultimately improves the lives of others and helps me be successful with my career goals.
I am excited to delve into the field of deployment psychology and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families during deployments. I hope to learn strategies for supporting individuals through the deployment cycle, as well as ways to promote resilience and mental well-being in this population. Additionally, I am eager to explore the impact of deployment on mental health and relationships and how to provide effective interventions and support for those experiencing difficulties. Overall, I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and skills in this important area of psychology.
Part 2 Understanding the Military Mindset
To effectively help military members and their families, it is necessary to have a thorough grasp of the distinct mentality that comes with serving in the armed services. This attitude is molded by a multitude of variables, including soldiers’ rigorous training and discipline, the deep camaraderie and sense of purpose that come with being a member of a military unit, and the continual exposure to high-stress and sometimes traumatic circumstances. Recognizing the military mentality allows mental health providers to better design their therapies and support services to suit the special requirements of this demographic.
For troops to trust and depend on one another under stressful circumstances, there must be a feeling of solidarity and cohesiveness among them. A military unit’s ability to maintain efficiency and order depends heavily on the discipline and obedience to rules that are instilled throughout basic training. Also, the intensive physical and psychological training regimen fosters resilience and mental toughness in troops, equipping them for the difficulties of battle and military life. All things considered, basic training is essential to molding people into cohesive and successful military personnel. By eliminating individualism and fostering a feeling of discipline, togetherness, and resilience, troops are better able to function as a cohesive unit and overcome challenges in demanding conditions. These fundamental ideas that are taught in basic training are the foundations of military success and are necessary for safely and successfully completing missions. For example, soldiers must overcome difficult physical and mental tasks that put their willpower and endurance to the test throughout basic training. By means of demanding obstacle courses, extended marches, and simulated war situations, troops acquire the ability to overcome their physical limitations and cultivate the mental resilience required to endure hardships. In addition to preparing them for the physical demands of battle, this training builds trust and a feeling of camaraderie among unit members, which strengthens their sense of cohesiveness and collaboration.
The Army’s ethos is based on these moral principles, which also direct troops’ decisions and behavior both on and off the battlefield. Loyalty to one’s unit and fellow soldiers creates a bond that can withstand even the most challenging circumstances. Duty drives soldiers to fulfill their obligations and responsibilities, putting the mission and the welfare of others above their own self-interest. Respect for oneself and others fosters a culture of dignity and equality within the ranks. Selfless service involves putting the needs of the team before one’s own desires, demonstrating a commitment to the greater good. Honor dictates that soldiers act with integrity and uphold the values of the Army at all times. Integrity is essential for building trust and credibility within the unit and with the public. Personal courage enables soldiers to face fear and adversity with bravery and conviction, even when the odds are stacked against them.
Soldiers who uphold these values not only develop into valiant combatants but also respectable and well-respected members of society. By continuously exhibiting these values, soldiers develop into valiant combatants as well as respectable and well-respected members of society. They give people confidence in their leadership skills and act as examples for others to follow. At the end of the day, upholding these principles keeps the military community closer together and guarantees the accomplishment of objectives and operations. Soldiers promote the Army’s basic values and foster an environment of excellence and professionalism by demonstrating selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. For example, a soldier may risk their own life on a mission in a difficult area in order to defend their other colleagues, demonstrating courage and selfless service. Their courage serves as a demonstration of their devotion to their team and serves as a reminder of the value of honor and integrity within the military community. Soldiers that demonstrate these attributes not only motivate fellow soldiers but also set a high standard for others to reach. Soldiers foster a culture of trust and togetherness in their unit by living out the Army’s basic values, which is crucial for any mission to be successful. Soldiers support the Army’s principles and contribute to a robust and resilient military community by consistently exhibiting selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.
These moral principles are essential for maintaining order, cohesiveness, and effectiveness within a unit in a deployed environment when troops encounter stressful events and difficult conditions. Serving without self-interest guarantees that soldiers put their teammates’ needs and the objective ahead of their own. Honor and integrity provide a feeling of responsibility and dependability among team members, as well as trust. Soldiers who possess personal courage are able to confront danger and misfortune with fortitude and tenacity, motivating others to follow their example. These principles work together to create a solid military community that is capable of overcoming challenges and succeeding on any mission. Soldiers who live according to these principles may develop close relationships with their fellow soldiers and collaborate effectively to achieve their objectives. The military community is united and respectful because of the confluence of selfless duty, honor, integrity, and personal courage. In the end, this group’s dedication to excellence and selflessness make it easier to accomplish the unit’s aims and objectives. These principles provide an example of hope during difficult times, inspiring warriors to go on and get over any barriers in their path.
References
Flood, A., & Keegan, R. (2022, March 16). Cognitive resilience to psychological stress in military personnel. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8966027/
Sefidan, S., Pramstaller, M., LaMarca, R., & Wyss, T. (2021, June 18). Resilience as a protective factor in basic military training, a longitudinal study of the Swiss Armed Forces. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8200239/