Prefix abbreviation - should it include a period?

Question

I looked in the Help text for the Prefix field but did not see the answer: when there is a Prefix for a person (e.g., Capt), should there or should there not be a period after Capt? Or should it be spelled out Captain, to be consistent with how we treat state names?

Answer 1

The information about Name Fields is:

3.1 Prefix

This is for a name prefix or title such as Mrs, Sir, Dr, Gov, Sgt, etc.

(Note no periods after the abbreviated prefix or title).

And:

3.9 Suffix

It is better to put Dr. in the Prefix field than Ph.D. or M.D.in the suffix.

(Note periods included).

Conclusion: The Prefix field is limited to 10 characters. If the length of the prefix or title to be added is less or equal to 10 characters we can spell it out making it more reader-friendly. If greater than 10 characters periods may or may not be used in the abbreviation based on the source and making it as understandable as possible.

Answer 2

Good question.

Personally, I like everything spelled out - Captain.  When I was in the military, the abbreviation was - CPT

So, I'd like to see the concensus.