Improving Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills Under Stress: Prediction and Training.
Abstract
This investigation draws on a theoretical framework developed by Kanfer & Ackerman to: (a) assess individual differences in reactivity to stress, particularly from information processing, and (b) to develop a battery of cognitive ability tests/self-regulation measures for predicting performance under stress. Three studies were conducted. Two studies used a dynamic Target/Threat Identification Task under time-pressure. The remaining study used a complex air traffic controller task (TRACON) over extended practice. Personality, motivation, and self-regulatory activity measures are often significantly associated with performance under task load. However, the mixture of cognitive ability influences and stress-reactions associated with performance on cognitive and perceptual speed abilities account for the major amount of individual differences in performance, and also account for variance that is common to the non-ability predictors and task performance. The Dial Reading and Directional Headings Tests are promising predictors of performance in stressful information processing activities. We conclude that such measures have definite advantages to self-reports in predicting individual differences in performance under stress.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 10, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA292104
Entities
People
- Phillip L. Ackeerman
- Ruth Kanfer
Organizations
- University of Minnesota