TOP..SECHET
to reduce the hazard. Similarly, the other fears referred to earlier would be less widespread and less
intense as a result of increased knowledgeof the constructive actions that could be taken.
There would belittle or no difference in the amountof bereavement. Infamily situations, bere rvement
is generally more bearable and less guilt is generated in the surviving members when they can ay with
justification to themselves and to each other, ‘ We did all we could.””
Webelieve that this woul Hi
apply,
to a significant degree, on a national scale following substantial concern with and participation in a public
program of discussion and action.
While such emotional states as apathy, hostility, selfishness, and opportunism would contin he to be
present, their incidence would besignificantly reduced.
The resultant types of negative behavior would be diminished, both in occurrence and in peverity.
Petty delinquency, hoarding, lower work efficiency, absenteeism, etc., would persist in some case , but in
many instances they would be replaced by recognition of worthwhile work to be done and by response to
the exercise of constructive leadership—a leadership which would be considerably strengthened,
particularly on the local level, by the processes of involvement and participation.
Such involvement and participation would also, we believe, result in a marked tougheni
social fabric. In this connection morale would be improved and the many voluntary associati
.
gemeid 7”
utilized for “‘town-meeting” discussions.
The interplay of sociological and psychological factors referred to earlier would be effectiv
the restoration of necessary ulilities would in turn fortify the morale of the people and increase
and capabilities for further constructive effort. In summary, the cumulative or “snowballing”
effects of social disorganization would be counterbalanced by the cumulative positive effects.
A Note on Morale
We have referred on several occasions to “morale” in the course of our discussion. Probably no
term is used more frequently in connection with group behavior and attitudes, nor with less concrete
agreement on its definition and components. We have agreed on the following definition of group morale
for use in the context of our discussions:
Morale ts the capacity of a group of people to pull together consistently and persistently in pursuit of Rk common
purpose.
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Finally, the health of the group—both physical and mental—is an element of major importance.
Morale—understood in these terms—is a vital element in maximizing positive behavior andfittitudes.
Wefeel therefore that advantage should be taken of opportunities within the Government fo utilize
persons or groups of people with responsibility for assessing morale and recommending actions|designed
to improveit.
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Morale is sustained by a number of components, all of which are valuable, but in special fituations
one or more of the components may be missing without impairing morale significantly.
In the first place, the group must have confidence in the purpose. It must seem both we@rthwhile
and feasible.
A second component is confidence in the leaders. The group must believe in both their capabilities
and motivation. (The motivation of the leaders includes concern for the welfare of the group.)
Thirdly, there must be confidence in the group as a whole—inits technical capabilities to pegform the
required tasks and in its motivation.
A fourth component is effective communications throughout the group—from leaders to followers,
from followers to leaders, among leaders and amongfollowers.