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National Science Foundation Award #9019131

Human Performance and Adaptation in Polar Environments

 
Investigator(s): Lawrence Palinkas (PI)
Sponsor: University of California-San Diego, CA 92093 8585340246
Start Date/Expiration Date 1991-07-15 to 1995-06-30 (amended 1993-08-21)
Awarded Amount to Date: $297,603
Abstract: Failure to adapt to prolonged isolation and extreme conditions of polar environments can have adverse consequences for both the individual and the organization. Despite decades of research, the identification of social and psychological characteristics associated with successful adaptation and performance in these settings remains problematic. Building upon the results of preliminary work conducted both in Antarctica and in the Canadian High Arctic, the proposed study will focus on social and psychological characteristics that predict performance and adaptation in both polar regions. Research will be conducted at McMurdo Station in Antarctica and four Atmospheric Environmental Service weather stations in the Canadian High Arctic using a battery of psychological screening instruments and a standardized debriefing protocol. This study will add to our understanding of the social and psychological sequellae of adaptation and adjustment in polar regions contributing to group morale and well-being, improved safety, and performance in these regions. In addition, the research will explicate fundamental interrelationships among environmental stress, coping resources, personality traits, and performance, and provide a growing data base for comparative and cross-cultural studies of adaptation and performance in polar environments.
NSF Org: OPP - Office of Polar Programs
Award Number: 9019131
Award Instrument: Continuing grant
Program Manager: Polly A. Penhale
OPP Office of Polar Programs
O/D OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR
NSF Program(s): ANTARCTIC BIOLOGY & MEDICINE, ARCTIC SOCIAL SCIENCES, ANTARCTIC BIOLOGY & MEDICINE
Field Application(s): Anthropology, Other Sciences NEC, Polar Programs-Related
Program Element Code(s): 5111
ARCTIC SOCIAL SCIENCES, 5221
, 5111