Psychological Adaptation in a Mixed Sex and Ability Team During a Ski Expedition to the South Pole

INTRODUCTION: Expeditions in remote locations are becoming increasingly commonplace. As the composition of teams change, understanding team dynamics is important to inform subsequent expeditions in challenging environments.

METHODS: Eight individuals (five men, three women; five military, three civilians) completed a ski expedition from the Ronne Ice Shelf to the South Pole over 47 d. A mixed methods observational cohort study was undertaken, involving completing pre-expedition Multidimensional Personality Questionnaires and Portrait Values Questionnaires. During the expedition individuals completed the Isolated and Confined Environments Questionnaire and the Positive and Negative Affect Scale at 7-d intervals. Subsequent semistructured interviews using a topic guide informed by Goffman’s “total institution” were conducted and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire and Portrait Values Questionnaire responses were similar between participants. The Isolated and Confined Environments Questionnaire results showed significant variation with no clear trend. Statistical significance was seen in social and emotional domains between sex and occupations. Positive and Negative Affect Scale scoring demonstrated higher positive affect (mean ± SD; 38.9 ± 1.5) to negative (13.1 ± 1.3). Subgroup analysis demonstrated significance for negative affect between sexes (one result skewed the data). The interviews highlighted that individuals found the routine and lack of personal space challenging. Interpersonal relationships were a source of support but also friction.

DISCUSSION: Despite similar initial questionnaires and experiences during the expedition, subjects used a diverse range of coping strategies. Interpersonal factors remain the most important aspect in ensuring a successful team and pre-expeditionary work should be carried out focusing on this.

Harper P, Albertsen N, Koivula F, Greenfield S, Thomas N. Psychological adaptation in a mixed sex and ability team during a ski expedition to the South Pole. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(5):399–406.