The existence Of psychosocial research in Antarctica is little known but has improved understanding of the ways in which humans adapt and respond to the stresses of living in isolated and confined environments. A strong focus on determining who was most suited to Antarctic conditions resulted in a refinement of selection criteria and the incorporation of psychological testing by most national programmes. This literature review describes the stresses, psychological effects and coping stratagems used by staffin Antarctica. The evolution Of selection criteria from the days of heroic exploration to the current day is described. Some researchers have attempted to predict adaptive response from biographical data, personality traits, and stress level. The variety of results may be due in part to the microculture Of each group, therefore studies On the relevance Of leadership and group dynamics are reviewed. Finally, some suggestions for future directions in Antarctic psychosocial research are made. The review concludes by listing the key findings Of 'shrinks' working in Antarctica. The existence Of psychosocial research in Antarctica is little known but has improved understanding of the ways in which humans adapt and respond to the stresses of living in isolated and confined environments. A strong focus on determining who was most suited to Antarctic conditions resulted in a refinement of selection criteria and the incorporation of psychological testing by most national programmes. This literature review describes the stresses, psychological effects and coping stratagems used by staffin Antarctica. The evolution Of selection criteria from the days of heroic exploration to the current day is described. Some researchers have attempted to predict adaptive response from biographical data, personality traits, and stress level. The variety of results may be due in part to the microculture Of each group, therefore studies On the relevance Of leadership and group dynamics are reviewed. Finally, some suggestions for future directions in Antarctic psychosocial research are made. The review concludes by listing the key findings Of 'shrinks' working in Antarctica.