Investigating the Effects of Trust in Isolated, Confined, and Extreme Teams: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry

Trust is a critical component of teamwork, particularly in isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environments where collaboration directly impacts mission success and safety. This mixed-methods study examines the mechanisms of trust in ICE teams, integrating qualitative findings from Antarctic field missions with quantitative survey data from ICE personnel. Results reveal that trust is multi-dimensional, comprising cognitive and affective components, and is influenced by ability, benevolence, integrity, and identification. Psychological safety emerges as a key trust-related factor, mediating outcomes such as perceived safety, team cohesion, and well-being. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of safety and the effect of trust on emotional well-being in ICE. Our findings show the unique role of trust in ICE contexts, where prolonged isolation and extreme conditions heighten its significance. This research contributes to team trust theories and informs strategies for improving team dynamics in high-risk environments, including polar expeditions and space missions.