From dreams to reality: a phenomenological study of the psychological contracts of ex-military personnel in the Australian Defence Force

Abstract Current recruitment and retention issues within the armed forces draw links with breach of psychological contract – dynamics employee–employer relationship. Compared civilian contexts, a military position is unique, however, there dearth conceptual investigation regarding lived experiences personnel, particularly respect to how such contracts form. This paper combined phenomenological approach critical decision method investigate informing formation trajectory ex-military personnel. Lived pointed formulation ‘fuzzy’ contracts, impressions from defence force recruitment, specific tipping points around organisational commitment, large differences between fidelity idealised actualised self/job. Seven superordinate themes are elicited that trace contract. A schematised account findings developed provide avenues beliefs form in context their outcomes.