The Antarctic environment poses both physical and psychological challenges to human performance, particularly during the austral winter. Additionally, Antarctic employment involves prolonged separation from existing social support networks. Previous research has demonstrated variations in expeditioner mood whilst in Antarctica and the subsequent impacts on both physical and psychological functioning (Palmai, 1963; Steel & Suedfeld, 1991). However, the concurrent experience of partners and the potential influence this has on expeditioner health during Antarctic residence is not well understood. Incorporating a cross-lagged, longitudinal design the present study investigates the experience of Antarctic absences in expeditioners and their partners. In particular, it highlights the significant differences in psychological health across Antarctic absence and provides a rationale for variance between expeditioners and partners based on data obtained from qualitative interviews. This research provides a more holistic understanding of Antarctic employment, and identifies implications for individual and dyadic adjustment at later stages of the Antarctic employment experience.

Item Type:	Refereed Conference Paper
Research Division:	Psychology
Research Group:	Applied and developmental psychology
Research Field:	Industrial and organisational psychology (incl. human factors)
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Specific population health (excl. Indigenous health)
Objective Field:	Occupational health
UTAS Author:	Norris, K (Professor Kimberley Norris)
UTAS Author:	Paton, D (Professor Douglas Paton)
ID Code:	54523
Year Published:	2008
Deposited By:	Psychology
Deposited On:	2009-02-24
Last Modified:	2014-12-18
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