The Correlation Between Personality Type and Performance Time While Wearing a Respirator

Many studies have shown that individuals perform better if not wearing a respirator compared with wearing a respirator. This study examined the degree of performance reduction attributable to specific dominant character traits. The subjects performed on a treadmill at a constant speed and grade resulting in 80–85% VO₂max. A modified M40 respirator was used to create three levels of inspiratory resistance: 2.8, 16.8, and 27.3 cmH₂O*(sec/L). The 31 subjects were tested using a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Multiple regressions and an ANOVA were used to test for correlation. When air intake is very constricted, the only multiple regression equation that was found to be statistically significant was sensing-intuition (how one takes in information) and thinking-feeling (how one makes a decision) vs. performance time for the highest value of inhalation resistance. A simple linear regression between trait anxiety level and performance time was not found to be statistically significant for the same highest value of inhalation resistance.

Keywords:

• anxiety
• inspiratory resistance
• personality