The Dynamics of Interpersonal Relations and Perception of Time During the “Sirius-23” Isolation Experiment

Abstract

Background. As part of experiments simulating interplanetary flights and work in outer space, an appropriate psychological support is required for crew members due to the circumstances associated with prolonged stay in isolation. Psychological monitoring of the crew members' status is not always possible. It is shown that indicators of interpersonal relationships, intra-group interaction, and attitude to the passage of time are important for assessing the level of psychological well-being.

Objective. The study had its purpose to reveal the dynamics of interpersonal relationships and time perception during an isolation experiment simulating a long-term space flight.

Study Participants. 6 participants of the ground-based simulation experiment "Sirius-23": 2 men and 4 women aged 26 to 37 years.

Methods. The study implemented the "Time Perception Scale" and the "Color Test of Relationships". Data processing included descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation analysis, comparative analysis of the empirical distribution with the expected uniform distribution using the Kolmogorov — Smirnov d-test, hierarchical cluster analysis using the full connection method, analysis of the significance of differences in dependent groups by the criterion of signs ("Statistics 12.0").

Results. The study has revealed the general dynamics of the sociometric status of the crew members: from a general ambivalent attitude in the period of primary socio-psychological adaptation, with further clarification of social roles within the team, resulting in a change in the attitude of the crew members to each other. Certain fluctuations take place in the individual sociometric statuses: from the ambivalence zone towards contrasting polarities; a statistically significant clarification of statuses was recorded after 8 months of being in isolation. The study demonstrated normative group processes: in the course of working together, the crew members formed an individual opinion about each other, assessed personal and professional qualities. Statistically significant changes were recorded in relation to the feelings of the negative register, the subjective perception of the passage of time, correlating with the ability of crew members to cope with the affect of anger.

Conclusions. The study provided an analysis of dynamics of interpersonal relationships and perception of time during the "Sirius-23" isolation experiment. The data obtained indicate the need for focused psychological support at the initial stage of the experiment, which actualizes the development of programs for the prevention of intergroup conflicts and the possibilities for psychological assistance.

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