Stressors, Coping Mechanisms, and Uplifts of Commercial Fishing in Alaska: A Qualitative Approach to Factors Affecting Human Performance in Extreme Environments

Authors

Jennifer Pickett, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium & University of Jyväskylä, FinlandFollow
Joeri Hofmans, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, BelgiumFollow

Abstract

We depict the physical and psychological challenges of commercial fishing in Alaska as well as the uplifts, or positive experiences fishermen report. We describe an array of coping methods that are utilized during the fishing season and the contexts in which they occur. Our findings help clarify the link between human behavior, stressors, coping mechanisms employed, and uplifts experienced when working in extreme conditions. By doing this, we provide a better understanding of the effects that severe conditions have on wellbeing, such as working for long periods of time in cramped quarters in remote, extreme environments, and how Alaskan fishermen cope with them.

Recommended Citation

Pickett, Jennifer and Hofmans, Joeri (2019) "Stressors, Coping Mechanisms, and Uplifts of Commercial Fishing in Alaska: A Qualitative Approach to Factors Affecting Human Performance in Extreme Environments," Journal of Human Performance in Extreme Environments: Vol. 15 : Iss. 1, Article 8.
DOI: 10.7771/2327-2937.1121
Available at: https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/jhpee/vol15/iss1/8