Perceptions of Military Spouses Working In Federal Employment on Changes in Their Work Environment During a Pandemic

Abstract

In this study I used a systems-thinking framework through the chaos theory of careers. I as-signed categories from the military-spouse employment collective framework (MSECF) as at-tractor types. I addressed the following research question: What are perceptions of military spouses working in federal employment on changes to the work environment during a pandemic? I found that military spouses in federal employment did not report feeling supported by their employer during the pandemic. I identified a connection between participating military spouses’ reported employment experiences during the pandemic and their perceptions of their employers’ knowledge and attitudes. I conclude that increased telework for military spouses is important for position retention of participants in military moves, known as a permanent change of station (PCS) and increased work schedule flexibilities are important to support military spouses in the workplace. I recommend federal employers increase telework and promote position retention in PCS situations.