Professional and Unprofessional Relationships

Define a professional relationship

Meets Air Force core values, enhances morale, unit cohesion, good order and discipline and improves the operational environment

Preserve proper respect for authority and focus on the mission

Define an unprofessional relationship (UPR)

Results in (or appears to show) favoritism, misuse of office or position, or the abandonment of organizational goals for personal interests

Detracts from the authority of superiors

Can occur on- or off-duty

What are some general prohibitions relating to UPRs for officers? (7)

-Inappropriate relationships with subordinates

-Fraternization and close friendships with subordinates

-Shared living accommodations, vacations, transportation, off-duty interests on a regular basis

-Personal relationships or activities with trainee and recruiter

-Solicitation

-Social media: must be appropriate and professional

-Family members: must respect customs and courtesies

What are some specific prohibitions relating to UPRs for officers?

Officers will not: (5)

-Gamble with enlisted members

-Lend money to or borrow from enlisted members

-Share living accommodations with enlisted members

-Engage in solicitation or business enterprises with enlisted members

-Engage in sexual activities with or date enlisted members

Define fraternization

Fraternization is a personal relationship between an officer and enlisted member that violates the customary bounds of acceptable behavior in the Air Force and prejudices good order and discipline, discredits the armed services, or operates to the personal disgrace or dishonor of the officer involved.

Does not include previously existing relationships

What are the effects of UPR on units cohesion

Compromises chain of command and results in the appearance of partiality

Decreases morale, discipline, authority, and good order

What are typical courses of action regarding UPR?

-Administrative discipline (LOR, demotion, etc.)

-Punitive actions (Article 15, court-martial)