Perceptual Narrowing during Simulated Pressure-Chamber Exposure

Abstract

In this study, 15 male subjects performed a central visual acuity task (Landolt ring detections) and a peripheral light detection task during what they thought to be a 60-ft. dive in a pressure chamber. There was no actual pressure change. A 15-man control group performed the same tasks at an outside location. Experimental measures included a posttest anxiety checklist and continuous heart rate recording. The chamber group showed significantly higher anxiety scores and also a significantly higher heart rate throughout the experiment. There was no difference between the groups with regard to correct Landolt detections, although the chamber group responded somewhat slower. Peripheral detection, however, was severely and significantly degraded in the chamber group. It was concluded that perceptual narrowing had been demonstrated as a result of psychological stress associated with exposure to the “dangerous” pressure-chamber.