Abstract Coping is a dynamic physiological and psychological process in response to perceived environmental stress that functions to restore physiological homeostasis and reduce negative affect [1]. Thematic content analysis was employed for references to 13 well-established coping strategies in interviews with 20 retired long-duration male cosmonauts. As in previous research with other space samples [2,3] the retired cosmonauts mentioned Problem-Oriented strategies more frequently than Emotion-Oriented ones. In the present sample, Seeking Social Support, Planful Problem Solving and Endurance/Obedience/Effort were the top three most mentioned coping strategies. Cosmonauts who had spent more than a year in space, compared to those who had spent less than a year, mentioned using Planful Problem Solving more as they recalled their career and retirement. Examining changes over time, spaceflight had a positive effect on Accepting Responsibility. Endurance/Obedience/Effort steadily decreased over time, while we found an inverted-U pattern for Distancing and Self-Control. Additional results in relation to other astronaut samples and the relationship between coping and post-flight growth are discussed.
Highlights Twenty retired cosmonauts completed questionnaires and interviews. Coping strategies were identified in both data sources. Active problem-solving strategies dominated in both. The cosmonaut's spaceflight experience made a difference.
Coping strategies during and after spaceflight: Data from retired cosmonauts
Acta Astronautica ; 110 ; 43-49
2014-12-19
7 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Coping strategies during and after spaceflight: Data from retired cosmonauts
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