Future directions in Antarctic psychology research

Abstract

Although existing research regarding the experience of Antarctic employment has primarily focused on the absence period (i.e. the period of time in which the expeditioner physically works in Antarctica), it has been repeatedly demonstrated that the majority of expeditioners experience positive outcomes associated with their time 'on the ice' despite transient (and frequently subclinical) physical, psychological, and social difficulties. Research strategies directed towards the individual experience of the expeditioner have not been able to fully account for the processes underpinning the adjustment processes that have facilitated seemingly resilient and growth outcomes. Similarly, insufficient research attention has been given to the separate phases of Antarctic employment, nor the potential interdependence between them, which may also provide further insight into these processes. To address these issues it has been argued that an approach incorporating individual, interpersonal, and organizational factors throughout the Antarctic employment experience, from pre-departure through absence, reunion, and reintegration, be adopted.

Time-dependent mood fluctuations in Antarctic personnel: a meta-analysis

“…As there is limited formal research investigating the impacts of pre-deployment on Antarctic personnel, pre-existing research provides limited insight into why an increase in negative mood may be occurring at this time point (Norris et al, 2010). However, research on populations deployed in other EUEs, such as military personnel, or for prolonged periods, such as oil rig workers or deep sea fishers, suggests the pre-departure phase poses unique challenges to the individuals about to be deployed (Norris et al, 2010). The impending separation from family and existing social support in these populations has been correlated with feelings of guilt, frustration, anger and emotional withdrawal (Fredrickson, 2001).…”

Psychological changes arising from an Antarctic stay: systematic overview

“…Nevertheless, environmental challenges may bring about stress, due to the overcoming of difficulties imposed upon polar teams (Norris, Paton & Ayton, 2010;Weiss, Suedfeld, Steel & Tanaka, 2000). After analyzing data referring to research reports, strong evidence supports the perspective that coping strategies can produce long-term salutogenic reactions in the expedition members' lives (Norris et al, 2010;Peri, Scarlata & Barbarito, 2000;Palinkas & Suedfeld, 2008). Accordingly, an increasing number of studies have been performed that are directed toward the understanding of the protection factors associated with well-being and professional performance under conditions of extreme adversity.…”

“…This is mostly reported as temporary, i.e., as stages or a linear pattern for the adaptation to the environmental stressors (Palinkas & Houseal, 2000). Nevertheless, environmental challenges may bring about stress, due to the overcoming of difficulties imposed upon polar teams (Norris, Paton & Ayton, 2010;Weiss, Suedfeld, Steel & Tanaka, 2000). After analyzing data referring to research reports, strong evidence supports the perspective that coping strategies can produce long-term salutogenic reactions in the expedition members' lives (Norris et al, 2010;Peri, Scarlata & Barbarito, 2000;Palinkas & Suedfeld, 2008).…”

Mood fluctuation in Antarctic expeditioners: does one size fit all?

“…The social parameters are sparse in comparison to routine environments that provide regular opportunities to socialise with a variety of people, across a diverse range of settings and contexts (Norris et al, 2010). During deployment, expeditioners not only have limited contact with their pre-existing social supports, but are forced to interact with a largely unchanging group of expeditioners, with factors such as age, gender and occupation, being significantly more homogeneous than those found in routine environments (Barnett & Kring, 2003).…”