Most youngsters in Israel undergo a dramatic change when they approach
18. They say goodbyw to their parents and friends and replace the
friendly and familiar civic environment with the tough and rugged
military world. For many this is a difficult transformation. Surprise,
disappointment and confusion - "shock" in military terms - are common
among recruits first joining up. "Successfully Joining the IDF"
describes the Israeli military from the perspective of an 18 year old
and provides many practical tips on how to successfully get through
those first and crucial months. It is a must read for anyone wishing to
do well and enjoy their military post, whether male, female, combat or
not, religious or secular, Sabra or new immigrant.
"Successfully Joining the IDF" exposes the different aspects of
military living, shows different coping mechanisms for various strains
and difficulties, enlightens the reader on the organisational code of
the IDF, and explains the IDF's unique logic, and how to adjust to it.
A special chapter is dedicated to the recruit's parents who are dealing
with new situations involving their children arising from their
enlistment.
The three authors are very experienced in the military world, and are
experts in preparing teenager for thei military service. They are the
creators of the "Etgar" program, a progpram aimed at preparing students
for military life, which is used in many high schools in Israel.
Amatzia Avni was a boot camp and intelligence unit psychologist, Gadi
Amir was the IDF's chief psychologist and a tank unit commander, Or-Li
Lahat was the commander of the "Bamahane" military magazine and an air
force pilot.