Human Performance in Extreme Environments focuses on the physiological, psychological and social factors that affect how people live and work in a number of extreme settings and occupations. It offers readers a unique balance between factual information derived from scientific research and observations based on the experience and anecdotal reports of men and women who work in such environments. The book also discusses specific occupations in which people are exposed to hazardous and unusual conditions, such as firefighting, search and rescue, and military combat. In addition to reviewing extreme environments and related occupations, the primary purpose of the book is to highlight the similarities and differences between such settings and demonstrate that lessons learned from one environment can be applied to other environments. Ultimately, it is intended that this volume will serve as a valuable reference and help lower the boundaries between different domains and organizations in order to improve our collective understanding of human performance in severely challenging environments. Each chapter follows the same format to facilitate its use as a reference source, to help readers find information easily under a consistent heading structure. All chapters are written by at least one academic author together with an author with applied or real world experience in the environment or occupation. Human Performance in Extreme Environments will appeal to researchers, students, practitioners and anyone with an interest in how people react to and perform under physically and mentally challenging conditions.

About the Author

Jason P. Kring is an Assistant Professor of Human Factors and Systems at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. His research and teaching efforts focus on human performance in extreme and unusual settings including spaceflight and military operations, particularly related to small group dynamics. He is also current President of the Society for Human Performance in Extreme Environments (HPEE); an interdisciplinary forum for scientists, operational personnel, and students. He holds a Masters degree in experimental psychology from Emporia State University and a Ph.D. in Applied Experimental and Human Factors Psychology from the University of Central Florida.