Utilizing Transition Theory in Order to Maximize Student Veteran Support

Copyright: The Career Center, Haworth College of Business, Western Michigan University

Robert Stewart MBA, GCDFCareer Development

Specialist &U.S. NAVY Veteran

Western Michigan University

Utilizing Transition Theory in Order to Maximize Student Veteran Support


Veterans Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP99qL2Ww0c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP99qL2Ww0c

N.K. Schlossberg Overwhelmed: Coping with life’s ups and downs. Lexington, KY: Lexington Press, 1989.

Transition Nancy Schlossberg defines transition as “an event or nonevent that results in change.” (1989) (roles, daily routines and/or personal relationships)

Event• Something that happens; being

accepted into school, getting married, being promoted

Nonevent• Something that was expected to happen

but did not; graduating from college, divorce, losing job due to downsize


The 4 S Model

Veteran

Situation

Self

Support

Strategy


The 4 S Model cont.

Move In• Situation

Move Through• Self• Support

Move Out• Strategy


Table ExerciseSituation:• Severity/Amount of Change • Timing – Expected or Unexpected• Control/Options• Other Factors

Self:• General Outlook on Life• Veterans Locus of Control• Stress

Management/Assertiveness• Resilience/Adaptability

Support:• Family/Friends• Money & Material Resources• Other Agencies & Referrals

Strategy:• Different Perspective• Inner Development of Resources • Additional Support/Agencies• Next Steps• Time Frame

4 S Model

• Read & discuss the scenario of **** in a group.

• Utilize the 4 S model. Take notes with the worksheet provided. Follow this order:

1. Situation2. Self3. Support4. Strategy

• Share group findings


Table Exercise


Partner Exercise Partner up for roleplay!

One person will play the role of the veteran:• Read the scenario before you begin. • When you are ready, read the script aloud to your

partner. • Try to remain true to the script.

The other person will play the role of the facilitator:• Listen carefully to the statements being made by the

veteran.• Use the 4 S Model worksheet to assist the veteran to

move in, move through, and move out of the transition.

Both roles be ready to share your observations with the group.


Closing Thoughts

Situation Self

Support Strategy


Questions?

Thank You!


References• Military Transition To Civilian Life (2014, May 5). Retrieved

from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP99qL2Ww0c

• Schlossberg, N.K. (1989). Overwhelmed: Coping with life’s ups and downs. Lexington, KY: Lexington Press

Utilizing Transition Theory in Order to Maximize Student Veteran Support

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