Decision processes and interactions during a two-woman travers of Anarctica

This investigation assessed an international two-woman team engaged in a 97-day traverse of Antarctica. Measures consisted of preexpedition personality assessments; expedition weekly ratings of individual and team status and work performance; postexpedition semistructured interview. Both participants scored relatively highest on the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) Absorption scale, the Personality Characteristics Inventory (PCI) Work and Positive Expressivity scales and lowest on the PCI Verbal Aggressiveness scale. One member reported sensed presence experiences, which served as an important motivating factor when fatigued or disappointed about daily progress. Enjoyment and awe of the environment were significant aspects of the daily trek and sources of psychological strength. Advantages of the co-equal dyad were evident in the cooperative nature of decision making and substantial similarities in approach to solving problems. Differences from the usual military command structure in decision-making processes and implications for planetary expeditions are discussed.