State-trait anxiety scores were used prior to the 1981 strike of air traffic control specialists (ATCSs) to estimate perceived levels of job stress in field studies of this occupational group. The present study assessed the relationship between anxiety, as measured by the State-Trait Personality Inventory (STPI), and post-strike ATCS trainee success at the FAA Academy and during field training. The STPI was administered to students who entered the FAA Academy between June 1984 and September 1985. Academy test scores were obtained for 1,790 students in the enroute option. Criterion data included the field training status of the Academy graduates as of July 1988. Statistical analyses determined the relationships between ATCS student scores on the STPI measures and (a) normative data and (b) Academy and field performance. ATCS students reported significantly lower state (current level) and trait (proneness) levels of anxiety than did either college students or military recruits. Individuals who were unsuccessful at the Academy, as well as those who were unsuccessful in the field, had higher overall anxiety scores. Trainees who had relatively high scores (for ATCS) on a combined index of the trait and state measures of anxiety exhibited significantly higher (a) percentages of Academy failures/withdrawals, (b) percentages of option switches in the field, and (c) overall field attrition than did trainees with low scores. Results support the operation of some personality-related self-selection among ATCS applicants regarding anxiety, and the importance of this characteristic for ATCS job success. Keywords: Air traffic controller, Selection. (SDW)


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Relationships of Anxiety Scores to Academy and Field Training Performance of Air Traffic Control Specialists


    Contributors:
    W. E. Collins (author) / D. J. Schroeder (author) / L. G. Nye (author)

    Publication date :

    1989


    Size :

    12 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English