The literature in the field of human factors suggests that there is a substantial need for developing certain controls over expected human reactions to the isolation and hostile environment in outer space. These studies cite numerous experimental and experiential situations in which human participants had manifested dysfunctional reactions to stress, unknown dangers and isolation. A hypothesis is put forth that the comic effect as a major part of structured leisure time activities can do much to prevent and/or ameliorate these human reactions so that astronauts can effectively accomplish system missions even under strain situations.
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