Psychological change following a long sail training voyage

A small number of previous studies have demonstrated that expeditions benefit their participants, mainly due to an increase in self-esteem. In this study, trainees on a transatlantic voyage completed various psychometric questionnaires before and after the voyage. The results were compared with controls tested at two equivalent times. The expected significant improvement in self-esteem was demonstrated and there were also significant improvements in coping. Self-esteem among the women improved more than in the men. Women were found to gain in the use of humour as a coping strategy. There was a trend toward reduction in psychological distress and there was no evidence of any adverse effects. Volunteers taking part in this type of challenging experience can expect to benefit from it.