Mentoring and monitoring: The use of unit watch in the 4th infantry division

Abstract

A unit watch is an intervention used by Army mental health care clinicians to assist soldiers in regaining mastery over impulsive or dangerous behaviors. Although widely used, it is controversial because of concerns for soldiers' safety and lack of formal study into its efficacy as a treatment option. A retrospective chart review conducted at the 4th Infantry Division Mental Health Section gathered demographic and diagnostic information on soldiers placed on unit watch during the year 2000. The results showed the intervention to be used most commonly with young, junior-grade enlisted soldiers without serious psychiatric diagnoses. Its effectiveness appeared to arise from increased social support during times of stress (mentoring) as well as close observation of the soldier by unit members to discourage impulsive or dangerous behavior and ensure immediate assistance if necessary (monitoring). This article will discuss these benefits as well as highlight potential problems and suggest areas for further study.