A review of current and proposed behavioral nudge strategies to improve the readiness of the United States military

Abstract

This review discusses findings on the use of behavioral nudges in both the Canadian and U.S. military. To date, most of this research has focused on improving recruitment and healthy eating behaviors in military personnel. The current review also highlights important areas of future research, focusing on the role behavioral nudges could potentially play in curbing three pressing issues in the U.S. military: 1) recruitment, 2) health-related readiness of the military, and 3) suicide prevention. The review concludes with an overview of unique challenges this work may face in the military context as well as unique resources available for this research and implementation not likely accessible in civilian communities.

Keywords: Behavioral economics; Military; Nudge.