TAPAS Military Selection and Classification

Question 1

What branch of the U.S. military first implemented TAPAS as part of its enlisted selection process?

Accepted Answer

U.S. Army

Answer

The U.S. Army was the first branch to adopt TAPAS for operational use in enlisted selection and classification. It was integrated into the Army's selection battery to supplement cognitive ability measures. Other branches later explored or adopted similar personality assessments.

Question 2

TAPAS was primarily developed to supplement which existing military assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)

Answer

TAPAS was developed to supplement the ASVAB by adding non-cognitive personality dimensions to the selection process. While ASVAB measures cognitive abilities and aptitudes, TAPAS captures temperament and personality traits. Together they provide a more comprehensive assessment of candidate potential.

Question 3

Which of the following is a primary goal of using TAPAS in military personnel classification?

Accepted Answer

Predicting which Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) best fits a candidate

Answer

A primary goal of TAPAS in military classification is to help predict which MOS or career field best matches a candidate's personality profile. By measuring non-cognitive traits, TAPAS can identify candidates who are more likely to succeed in specific roles. This improves both job satisfaction and retention rates.

Question 4

What non-cognitive outcome was TAPAS specifically designed to predict in military populations?

Accepted Answer

First-term attrition and disciplinary problems

Answer

TAPAS was specifically designed to predict first-term attrition and disciplinary incidents among enlisted service members. High attrition rates represent a significant cost to the military in terms of training investment lost. By screening for personality traits linked to persistence and rule compliance, TAPAS helps reduce these costly outcomes.

Question 5

In the context of military selection, what does the term 'attrition' specifically refer to?

Accepted Answer

Failure to complete an initial enlistment term

Answer

In military selection research, attrition refers to a service member's failure to complete their initial enlistment obligation. This can occur due to performance failures, disciplinary actions, medical issues, or voluntary separation. Reducing attrition is a key goal because each separated recruit represents a significant training investment loss.

TAPAS - Tailored Adaptive Personality Assessment System Practice Test

TAPAS - Tailored Adaptive Personality Assessment System Practice Test

TAPAS Military Selection and Classification