Publication: Advances in Polar Science (APS). Antarctic Research. Vol. 5, No. 1, 27~33, June 1994
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Author: Xue Zuohong and Xue Quanfu
CNARC member: Polar Research Institute of China (PRIC)
Abstract: Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), Behavior Pattern Questionnaire (BPQ) and Social Responses Questionnaire (SRQ) were used to survey the psychological character changes on some members of the Zhongshan Station in Antarctica in winter. We also observed changes on memory by using visual memory span. In addition, we measured indirectly the changes on their higher nervous activity flexibility by Drawing Test. The questionnaires yield the following results: (1) No statistical significance was found in the score of three factions of EPQ, but significant changes happened in a few cases. (2) The score of EPQ of type A had a tendency to drop. (3) Subjects had the tendency to turn to external control on their Locus of Control.
Different from the members' subjective feelings, memory test showed no significant change. The flexibility of higher nervous system activity declined temporarily during polar nights, and returned rapidly to normal level when this period passed. In summary, the results of questionnaires and tests prove to be helpful for winter members to be adapted to the Antarctic natural and social environment. It is the first time that mental activities of our winter members were tested. Relevant research is continuing.
Keywords: Zhongshan Station, Antarctica, character and psychological characteristics, personality
