Hunger in Groups: An Arctic Experiment
Abstract
A test of underfeeding in the Arctic during the summer of 1960 is presented. The experiment used two replicated cycles, each consisting of a five-day control phase followed by two fiveday experimental phases during which subjects trekked over the Greenland Icecap man-hauling sleds. Variables included eight sub-groups paired into five-man teams, two feeding conditions, and two work conditions. Reliable confirmation of previous reports was provided for some phenomenological effects: e.g., weakness, sensitivity to minor task increments, and concern about health and hygiene. Alleged sensitivity to cold was unconfirmed, and sexuality appeared to be a concomitant of the general stress situation rather than a specific correlate of hunger. That time passes more slowly for hungry men also was not supported by subjects' reports. Social effects of hunger on groups included reduced talk and humor, and increased complaining about minor strains. Contrast between effects of external demand stress and hunger deprivation stress was notable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0284922
Entities
People
- Richard W. Seaton