Cognitive Flexibility and Adaptive Thinking in High-Stress Environment: A Systematic Review

AbstractThis research paper explores how cognitive flexibility and adaptive thinking influence the high-stress environment and its navigation. Cognitive flexibility and adaptive thinking are essential for maintaining performance in high-stress environments. Research indicates cognitive flexibility enhances learning processes1. Environmental stressors such as heat, cold, and altitude can impair cognitive performance, varying depending on exposure duration and task complexity2. In resuscitation scenarios, stress factors like illness severity and noise influence decision-making but can be mitigated through cognitive aids and stress management training3. Executive functions, particularly working memory and flexibility, are linked to stress resilience4. Understanding these factors and their interrelationships can guide the development of strategies to enhance cognitive performance and resilience in high-stress environments, potentially through targeted training programs and decision-support tools.