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| Lunar Mining (NASA artist's conception) |
Because space colonization seems
inevitable for the long-term survival of
humans, there is a growing need for knowledge
about space
psychology.
Researcher Nick Kanas has written
about the
following psychological challenges
that such
colonists might face: “…anxiety, depression…
psychosis, psychosomatic symptoms…
postflight personality changes…
interpersonal tension… need for privacy…”
It should be noted that many of
these difficulties are also prevalent on Earth. Plus, there are some extraordinary space-psychology benefits
that have been reported.
According to Pacific Standard, Kanas also wrote about the “growth enhancing and salutogenic” effects of long-term space endeavors. Pioneers “may experience increased fortitude,
perseverance,
independence, self-reliance,
ingenuity, comradeship.”
Not only that, “transcendental
experiences” and “religious insights” have also
been described by seasoned astronauts. There is a tremendous sense of unity that can be
gleaned by viewing Earth from a cosmological
perspective.
Resources
http://www.psmag.com/health-and-behavior/psychology-of-long-missions-in-space
Copyright March 25, 2015 by Linda Van Slyke All Rights Reserved
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