Crew - Ground Control Communication Styles: Preliminary Results

Paper number

IAC-05-A1.5.08

Author

Dr. Vadim Gushin, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russia

Coauthor

Ms. Anna Yusupova, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russia

Coauthor

Mrs. Irina Popova, Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russia

Year

2005

Abstract

Analysis of space crew communication with ground personnel have been previously carried out in the Institute for Biomedical Problems, Russia, to gain data about the psycho-neurological status of the cosmonauts for further elaboration of the medico-psychological countermeasures. Continuing these traditional research, we are applying quantitative speech content analysis. It allows us to reveal individual style of communicative behavior during prolonged space flights, to monitor relationship dynamics within the group and between the crew and Mission Control (MC). This approach has been tested, elaborated and showed its effectiveness during international study with prolonged simulated isolation “SFINCSS’99”. Necessary precautions to keep subject’s confidentiality has been elaborated and adopted by Ethical Board.

In our study we suggested that different personality traits of the crewmembers, as well as specific values and goals of their crews, would be expressed in different patterns (styles) of communication with MC.  Comparing results gained from several ISS missions, we detected three different communication styles of cosmonauts and MC.  First style can be characterized by total mutual consensus, achieved by avoiding of discussing “sharp angles”.  We see the weakness of this style in the denial of any real difficulties. It may give both sides an illusion of complete understanding and thus mask real problems, concealment of which may lead to the appearance of potentially hazardous situations. Second style is connected with exaggeration of the existing difficulties, domination of negativistic emotional reactions to the standard operational questions. Communicants are exceeding the bounds of the productive operational communication, trying to discuss their personal offences instead. Cosmonauts, demonstrating this style, were extremely emotional, their discussions with MC were full of satire and acidity. Third style may be described by tendencies to discuss the existing problems in a constructive positive way, thus targeting cosmonaut – MC communication to their resolution.  These communicants openly describe the appearing difficulties, even contradictions in positions with MC in the rational manner, making special impact on the joint elaboration of the ways of coping with the help of MC recommendations.
Detecting of different crew - MC communication patterns confirms our hypothesis and raises a question of permanent monitoring of the crew – MC contacts in order to provide effective data exchange within the communication loop and to avoid possible conflicts and misunderstanding. 

The results of our study will be used in the elaboration of communicative training program within the bounds of  cosmonauts’ psychological training in Gagarin’s  Training Centre.

Abstract document

IAC-05-A1.5.08.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-A1.5.08.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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