The Stability of Psychometric Performance during the International Biomedical Expedition to the Antarctic (IBEA)

Abstract

A selection of tests designed to measure certain cognitive and psychomotor functions was administered to 11 subjects on an Antarctic expedition, some of whom had been preacclimatized with cold baths. No evidence was found of deterioration due to the Antarctic climate, or to the lack of preacclimatization. It was concluded that the motivation of the subjects was the crucial factor in maintaining their performance.

Index Terms:

• cognitive performance
• psychomotor performance
• extreme environment