The U.S. Army Human Dimension Concept, published in May of 2014, presents the challenge of optimizing human performance in an increasingly complex and urbanizing world where Soldier interactions may have strategic effects. In addressing this challenge, the Human Dimension Concept presents three components of the solution: cognitive, physical, and social. This study explores the cognitive component of the solution using a qualitative, case study methodology to understand how the Army may optimize cognitive performance. Literature supports the assumption that an incremental self-theory of intelligence, also known commonly as the growth mindset, is required to optimize cognitive performance. As the Army seeks to create a culture of lifelong learning, this study explores the inclusion of self-theory within the desired outcomes of the three primary Army commissioning sources. This study finds that self-theory is not included within the guiding policies, regulations and doctrine guiding the programs of instruction at the U.S. Military Academy, the Reserve Officer Training Corps, and the Officer Candidate School.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)