The ICE-Q: A tool for the assessment of Psychological Adaptation Processes (PAP) in Isolated and Confined Extreme (ICE) environments

International audienceLife in Isolated and Confined Extreme (ICE) environments poses important challenges and constraints and therefore to human adaptation and more particularly to the processes of psychological adaptation (PAP). Contemporary models view psychological adaptation as a dynamic process of constant adjustment to the environment, encompassing changes in physical, social and psychological demands and constraints (Cramer, 2000; Lazarus, 1991; Nicolas et al., 2017). The literature lacks valid and reliable measures of the psychological processes engaged in adaptation to the ICE environment (Sandal, Leon, & Palinkas, 2006). Monitoring can provide early warning of mission- and health-endangering psychological disturbances. This communication describes the development of a psychometrically sound instrument to evaluate individual and social adaptation in ICE environments. It is intended for use in spaceflight and other extreme situations (e.g., polar stations, offshore platforms, deep diving, deep-sea sailing, submarines or military missions)