Methodology to assess psychological stress and its impact in the air combat environment.

Operations within an air combat environment are typically associated with subjective feelings of strain, pressure, and tension. These feelings are referred to as stress and can impact on performance within the combat setting. To identify which pilot operations commonly produce stress, to assess the level of stress generated by those operations, and to evaluate the impact of stress on combat performance, a Combat Stress Questionnaire was developed for administration to combat experienced fighter pilots. A trial administration was conducted using members of the San Antonio Chapter of the Red River Fighter Pilots' Association, and these preliminary findings are presented. Written comments were solicited from these respondents and combined with the preliminary findings; there appear to be indications that while combat per se generates the most severe stress, it is stress experienced prior to combat which is associated with performance. Plans for extended data collection and the usefulness of these data to scientific inquiry, training, and the operational environment are discussed. A copy of the Combat Stress Questionnaire is provided in the appendix. (Author)