Research for Dependents

This research memorandum helps answer the question of whether there are performance differences between Marines who are married (or have dependents) and single Marines. The population of first-term Marines is 'more married' that it used to be: the ratio of married to single Marines has changed from 1:5 to 1:4 in the last decade. The analysis of performance focuses on a Marine's career at entry, during the first term, and beyond the first term. Results show that: (a) the recent rise in the dependency rate took place across most age groups and paygrades; (b) there are no substantial racial differences in marriage behavior; and (c) first-term enlisted Marines are more likely to be married than civilians of comparable educational backgrounds and ages. This study provides useful information to policymakers considering a reduction in the first-term marriage and dependency rate.

This research memorandum analyzes the factors underlying the recent growth in the proportion of enlisted Marines that are married or that have dependents. A methodology is applied to break down changes in marriage and dependency rates into the part that is due to changes in the mix of characteristics and the part that is due to changes in behavior.

The Family Service Centers (FSCs) present a diverse set of services to Marines and their families. This report presents the results of a study of Marine Corps family programs provided by the FSCs. These services include personal, family, and financial counseling, employment assistance, help for victims of domestic violence, and other services. Data from the 1985 DOD Member and Spouse surveys, USMC exit questionnaires, administrative records, and special purpose surveys of FSC directors and Marine unit commanders are used to assess the success of FSCs in meeting the objectives of serving commanders and Marines and their families and to estimate the impact of family programs on Marine retention.