Coping with Antarctic demands: Psychological implications of isolation and confinement

Abstract

Working in extreme environments requires a wide range of cognitive, psychological andsocialcompetences.Antarcticarepresentsoneofthemostchallenginghabitatsto work in due toits aridity, extremely cold weather, and isolated conditions. This study aimed to assess mood variations and coping strategies, as well as their possible modulationbygroupdynamicsinacrewattheBelgranoIIArgentineAntarcticStation throughout 1 year of confinement. Thirteen members of the Argentine Army completedemotional,copingandsocialdynamicsquestionnairesbimonthlyinMarch, May, July, September and November. Results showed a significant decline in social dynamics scales, evidenced by decreases in perceived peer and hierarchical support. Additionally, coping strategies displayed a drop in mature defence throughout the expedition. A positive correlation was found between social support and recovery from stress. Our results highlight the importance of interpersonal relationships in psychological adjustment to isolation and extreme environments.