TY - GEN AU - Kolaski, Gerard TI - Cultural awareness and the US military advisor in the Arab Middle East: a phenomenological study SN - 9783659441660 U1 - 650 KO CU PY - 2015/// CY - Phoenix PB - LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing KW - Arab Military Organizational Behavior KW - Middle East Military Forces N2 - This qualitative phenomenological study explored the experiences of 22 active duty and retired U.S. Air Force officers at an Arab Gulf State military airbase working with Arab military counterparts to understand how differences in culture affect the working relationship. Research participants included advisors, instructors, or liaisons from four organisations executing U.S. military security cooperation and assistance goals. The study may have applicability for other service members who work with Arab or Muslim allies. Findings show that to work effectively with Arab counterparts, advisors require abilities in three key functions: 1) adapting, 2) relating and 3) influencing. Recommendations include the need for more appropriate cultural awareness preparatory training as well as need for maintaining closer working relationships with Arab counterparts. Recommendations also encourage U.S. military leaders and services to improve selection, support, and recognition of advisors because of their key role in executing U.S. security cooperation and assistance objectives. Study results also show a greater need to include Arab counterparts in U.S. training and exchange opportunities UR - https://uowd.box.com/s/c3rz687ewty5io9iy1243qaqy2cx9be6 ER -