Psychological changes and group dynamics during confinement in an isolated environment

Area of Science:

• Space psychology
• Human factors in spaceflight
• Intercultural communication

Background:

• Increasing international crew presence on the International Space Station (ISS) necessitates understanding cultural and personal dynamics.
• Short- and long-duration space missions require adaptation to isolated environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate interpersonal and personal changes in Japanese subjects during a 1-week isolation in the Japanese Experiment Module.
• Assess if cultural background and personality traits become more pronounced during isolation using the Giebetaen Test (GT).

Main Methods:

• Six males and two females (aged 22-28) participated in a 7-day isolation study.
• The Giebetaen Test (GT) was administered four times during and once after the isolation period.
• The study utilized the GT as an individual and group diagnostic instrument.

Main Results:

• GT self-pictures indicated a shift towards negative social resonance and social withdrawal.
• Subgroup formation occurred without causing isolation or tension.
• GT foreign-pictures revealed changes in judgment towards hedonic and permeability directions.
• Japanese subjects' interpersonal relationships influenced group dynamics, promoting integration and connectedness.

Conclusions:

• Cultural background and personal traits were amplified during the isolation period.
• Isolation studies involving international crews are crucial for future space missions.
• Intercultural training is recommended for international crews on both short- and long-duration missions.