The Long Cold Night: Comparing Expeditioner and Partner Experiences during Antarctic Absences

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.