Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1177/00187208261419344
Craig J Johnson, Robert S Gutzwiller, Myke C Cohen, Nancy J Cooke
{"title":"Team Workload in Action Teams: A Review of Empirical Research.","authors":"Craig J Johnson, Robert S Gutzwiller, Myke C Cohen, Nancy J Cooke","doi":"10.1177/00187208261419344","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261419344","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThis review examines how team workload has been studied in action team experiments, consolidates and synthesizes trends and findings, and identifies gaps and directions for future research.BackgroundTeam workload is often considered a team-level emergent construct distinct from individual workload, but the literature on action team research varies substantially in its conceptualization, manipulation, and measurement of the construct. Accurately characterizing team workload can inform strategies for improving how action teams operate under demanding conditions.MethodA literature review was conducted, focusing on empirical studies that examined team workload in action team experiments.ResultsWe identified diverse methods for measuring team workload, including subjective assessments, performance-based metrics, physiological indicators, and team interaction analyses. Team workload is predominantly analyzed as mean aggregates of individual workloads, though variance-based and configurational analyses were also observed. However, applications of various demand manipulations suggest nonlinear impacts on individuals and teams alike. These findings underscore the complex emergent properties of team workload, which individual workload measures may not capture fully.ConclusionsThere are numerous opportunities to improve and advance the study of team workload in action teams, including gaps in its conceptualization, dynamic measurement, and the application of demand manipulations.ApplicationsThis review's findings can guide researchers and practitioners in measuring and manipulating team workload in action teams, highlighting potential methodological pitfalls and offering insights into the relationship between common teaming variables and empirical findings. These insights can be applied to enhance system design, training programs, and team evaluation practices in action team domains.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"806-840"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146159481","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1177/00187208261419347
Arleen Aksay, Brittney Hartle, Robert S Allison, Elizabeth L Irving, Sion Jennings, Laurie M Wilcox
{"title":"Visual Illusions in Aviation: Simulating the Black Hole Phenomenon.","authors":"Arleen Aksay, Brittney Hartle, Robert S Allison, Elizabeth L Irving, Sion Jennings, Laurie M Wilcox","doi":"10.1177/00187208261419347","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261419347","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThe aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a Transport Canada Level 2 Instrument Proficiency Check Flight Training Device to elicit the disorientation caused by the black hole illusion. To evaluate the role of gender, we measured the relative susceptibility of men and women.BackgroundSpatial disorientation is a well-known causative factor in aviation mishaps. However, there is no simulation-based training protocol for visual illusions that cause spatial disorientation.MethodWe simulated an approach-and-land scenario using an ALSIM simulator. Trainee pilots were instructed to maintain a 3° approach and land the aircraft under conditions with (nighttime) and without (daytime) the black hole illusion. We computed altitude errors by differencing the daytime and nighttime flight paths. Glideslope errors were calculated as deviations from the 3° approach. To assess the contribution of spatial abilities, participants completed a mental rotation test.ResultsMost pilots showed a shallow final approach during night flight relative to day flights. The pilots who experienced the illusion had lower mental rotation scores than those who did not. Men had higher mental rotation scores, on average, than women, and showed less negative altitude and glideslope errors in the night relative to day conditions. These errors were not mitigated by flight experience.ConclusionWe reproduced the effects of the black hole illusion in a relatively low-cost aviation simulator. Gender and mental rotation skills were factors in black hole disorientation.ApplicationIt is feasible to implement simulated visual illusion scenarios in aviation training. It is important to consider gender in designing and assessing flight scenarios.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"725-743"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13133416/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146159228","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1177/00187208261420661
Aliza Maqsood, Lisa K Lavalle, Taylor W Cleworth
{"title":"Effects of Virtual Environmental Cues on Quiet Stance in Young Adults.","authors":"Aliza Maqsood, Lisa K Lavalle, Taylor W Cleworth","doi":"10.1177/00187208261420661","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261420661","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore the effect of contrast and spatial frequency intensities in a virtual environment on quiet, upright stance.BackgroundVisual feedback provides crucial sensory information to maintain postural control. Changes to contrast sensitivity and spatial frequency in the environment have been shown to influence postural stability; however, there is currently no work examining the influence of environmental contrast and spatial frequency on balance among young healthy populations.Methodology28 healthy participants stood on a force plate, feet together, while wearing a head-mounted display. Participants viewed a virtual room and were exposed to four 60s conditions, each with a modified level of contrast (low or high) and spatial frequency (low or high) of the surrounding wallpaper. Center of pressure and head displacement root mean square and mean power frequency were calculated to quantify balance behavior.ResultsHigher contrast reduced sway, particularly along the AP axis and on a foam surface (COP AP RMS foam: 7.56 ± 1.92 mm vs. 8.61 ± 1.70 mm; HMD AP RMS: 7.46 ± 2.57 mm vs. 8.92 ± 3.20 mm, mean ± SD). Spatial frequency affected only COP ML RMS on foam, with lower spatial frequencies producing slightly greater sway amplitude (7.93 ± 1.93 mm vs. 7.42 ± 1.75 mm).ConclusionIn conclusion, the level of both contrast and spatial frequency in the surrounding environment impact balance control during quiet, upright stance.ApplicationThis study suggests visual environmental cues should be considered when designing environments to reduce fall risk.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"744-756"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13133419/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146114957","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-02-24DOI: 10.1177/00187208261421986
Ulubilge Ulusoy, Garrett E Reisman
{"title":"Exploring the Investment Construct for Quantifying AI Utilization.","authors":"Ulubilge Ulusoy, Garrett E Reisman","doi":"10.1177/00187208261421986","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261421986","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveWe explored the <i>Investment</i> construct to quantify human utilization of AI and examined respect, trust, workload, and self-confidence as factors influencing utilization within the <i>Investment</i> Framework.BackgroundThe <i>Investment</i> construct is a new approach proposed to quantify human utilization of AI-enabled agents based on the measurable opportunity costs incurred by humans. An experimental study was conducted to operationalize the construct and examine its relationships with influencing factors.MethodThirty participants performed a maintenance task while an AI assisted them. Participants were split into three groups with different allocated completion times to simulate different task-load levels, under the assumption that a lower task load would lead to higher <i>Investment</i>. We collected typing data as the objective measure of <i>Investment</i>, and responses to a six-item custom scale as the subjective measure. Additionally, we collected data for the influencing factors listed above.ResultsThere was a significant difference between groups in terms of both <i>Investment</i> measures, and <i>Investment</i> was higher with a lower task load, as expected. Furthermore, these two <i>Investment</i> measures correlated. We also revealed a correlation between respect and the subjective measure of <i>Investment</i>. No other significant correlations were revealed.ConclusionThis study presents the first empirical evidence of AI utilization conceptualized through incurred opportunity costs within the <i>Investment</i> Framework, explored using two independent measures and influencing factors.ApplicationThe <i>Investment</i> Framework can guide the design of effective human AI interaction by helping to balance human effort and AI benefit, prevent underutilization, and enhance both team performance and AI improvement.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"757-787"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147277625","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-05-31DOI: 10.1177/00187208261454185
Joonbum Lee, Jimin Kim, John D Lee, Benjamin Austin, Josh Domeyer
{"title":"Asking AI About Your Car: AI-Augmented Vehicle Owner's Manuals Support Integrated System Understanding Beyond Traditional Documentation.","authors":"Joonbum Lee, Jimin Kim, John D Lee, Benjamin Austin, Josh Domeyer","doi":"10.1177/00187208261454185","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1177/00187208261454185","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThis study investigates the effectiveness of an AI-powered interactive vehicle owner's manual compared to a traditional static manual in improving users' understanding of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) using a production vehicle's owner's manual.BackgroundAs vehicle automation becomes increasingly complex, drivers face challenges in understanding ADAS features. While traditional owner's manuals have demonstrated effectiveness when they are used, there remains potential to enhance driver engagement through AI and provide more interactive and accessible learning experiences.MethodsUsing a between-subjects design, 38 participants were randomly assigned to learn about four commercially available ADAS features using either a PDF manual or a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) AI manual. Mental model accuracy was assessed through multiple-choice questions, while participants' reasoning patterns were analyzed using structural topic modeling (STM) of open-ended responses.ResultsBoth training methods improved mental model accuracy from pre- to post-training, with no significant differences between PDF and RAG conditions in quantitative learning outcomes. However, STM analysis revealed distinct qualitative differences in the participants' reasoning patterns. RAG-trained participants demonstrated more sophisticated systems-level thinking, particularly in feature integration reasoning. Analysis through the lens of the Technology Acceptance Model revealed that both methods operate through similar psychological mechanisms, with perceived usefulness aiding user acceptance.ConclusionAI-augmented owner's manuals achieve comparable learning effectiveness to traditional documentation while enhancing feature integration reasoning. Interactive AI systems serve as effective enhancements rather than replacements for proven educational approaches, guiding users toward more sophisticated mental models of complex automated systems.ApplicationThis research provides insights for automotive manufacturers and documentation specialists on effective approaches for educating drivers about complex vehicle automation systems, potentially improving safety and user experience.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"187208261454185"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148102307","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-27DOI: 10.1177/00187208261418892
Jiwon W Kim, Reid W Stanslaski, Michael C Dorneich
{"title":"Adaptive Decision-Making Under Pressure: Effects of Control Mode-Cognitive Resource Alignment on Performance Within the Contextual Control Model.","authors":"Jiwon W Kim, Reid W Stanslaski, Michael C Dorneich","doi":"10.1177/00187208261418892","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261418892","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThis study investigates how task demand and experience influence perceived available cognitive resources and control mode, and how these factors affect performance under pressure. It also examines how control mode-cognitive resource mismatches impact performance within the contextual control model (COCOM) framework.BackgroundAdaptive decision-making is essential in high-stakes domains. COCOM posits that individuals adopt control modes, which are patterns of decision-making strategies ranging from reactive to planful (<i>Scrambled, Opportunistic</i>, <i>Tactical</i>, <i>Strategic</i>), based on contextual factors like subjectively available time. However, empirical validation of COCOM mechanisms remains limited.MethodThirty-seven participants completed an air traffic control simulation game across three sessions (representing experience) and four task levels. Behavior-anchored questionnaires assessed perceived cognitive resources and control mode. Performance was obtained from simulation logs.ResultsPerceived available cognitive resources decreased with task demand but increased with experience. Participants employed more planful control modes as cognitive resources and experience increased. Cognitive resource appraisals mediated the effect of task demand on control mode. Planful control was associated with higher performance when paired with high cognitive resources and complex tasks. Performance declined when planful modes were chosen despite low perceived resources.ConclusionFindings provide within-person evidence for a mechanistic pathway of adaptive cognitive control, demonstrating that task demand and experience shape cognitive resource appraisals, which in turn influence control mode and performance. Mode-resource alignment is critical for effective decision-making, enhancing performance.ApplicationTraining and decision support can target control mode-cognitive resource alignment by building metacognitive skills for monitoring cognitive resources and selecting appropriate control modes.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"599-616"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146069014","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1177/00187208251412110
Laura Louise Moens, Sinéad Lydon, Sara Cucurachi, Paul O'Connor, Thomas Christian Sauter, Gian-Andri Töndury, Tanja Manser
{"title":"Measuring Situation Awareness: A Meta-Review Across Domains.","authors":"Laura Louise Moens, Sinéad Lydon, Sara Cucurachi, Paul O'Connor, Thomas Christian Sauter, Gian-Andri Töndury, Tanja Manser","doi":"10.1177/00187208251412110","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208251412110","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveTo identify and interpret evidence from systematic reviews of Situation Awareness (SA) measurement across domains, focussing on measures' psychometric properties, and provide practical implications for SA measurement.BackgroundSeveral systematic reviews have been published on SA measurement, often focussing on specific measurement tools, domains, or psychometric properties. This creates a challenge for understanding the evidence supporting SA measures and for establishing best practice in SA measurement.MethodFive electronic databases were searched up to February 2025. The meta-review was prospectively registered (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024521458). Reviews were included if they were systematic and focused on SA measurement. Data were extracted on the review characteristics and the SA measurement tools identified, including their psychometric properties. Studies were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for systematic reviews.ResultsFourteen reviews, capturing over 477 unique primary studies, were included in this meta-review. In total, 38 distinct SA measurement tools were identified and subdivided into four categories of SA measurement: self-ratings, observer ratings, probing techniques, and physiological metrics. Psychometric evidence was limited for most tools. Probing techniques, especially the Situation Awareness Global Assessment Technique (SAGAT), showed the most extensive validity evidence but were associated with usability concerns.ConclusionThe application of SAGAT may be recommended as best practice currently, while other tools offer complementary strengths for specific contexts.ApplicationThis synthesis provides guidance on best practice for SA measurement based on measurement purpose and context of use, balancing methodological rigour with feasibility to enhance SA measurement across diverse operational environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"632-672"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13013663/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145994552","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-14DOI: 10.1177/00187208251414303
Laurine Peter, Céline Villa, Roland Brémond, Yannick Sutter, François Eymond
{"title":"Outdoor Lighting Quality for Pedestrians at Night: The Effects of Reduced Light Levels.","authors":"Laurine Peter, Céline Villa, Roland Brémond, Yannick Sutter, François Eymond","doi":"10.1177/00187208251414303","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208251414303","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThe aim of this field study was to explore the effects of a light reduction strategy on various qualitative and quantitative outdoor lighting quality criteria.BackgroundSeveral outdoor lighting quality criteria have been highlighted in previous work related to perception and evaluation from pedestrians. Previous studies revealed that a decrease of horizontal illuminance impacts criteria, and that individual moderators need to be considered.Method70 participants had to walk on different footpaths with a reduced luminous flux at night. They completed a questionnaire and tasks about perception and evaluation of outdoor lighting quality.ResultsThe results highlight an effect of the luminous flux and/or footpath on each criterium excepted discomfort from glare. A reduced luminous flux of 50% increases perceived visibility, visual acuity, and overall lighting quality compared to a flux at 10%. Differences in layout impact perceived visibility, perceived safety and overall lighting quality. Women have a lower perceived safety score than men, which is reflected in both quantitative and qualitative content. Elderly people have poorer visual acuity and mention brightness and darkness less often when describing the footpaths.ConclusionsThrough the mixed quantitative and qualitative approach conducted, the results confirm the impact of the lighting levels reduction on outdoor lighting criteria and are closely dependent on the context and location chosen.ApplicationsTaking into account the individual variability in decision-making processes could help local authorities to conduct policies of light reduction to limit the impact on the environment and to adapt urban lighting to everyone.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"617-631"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145968138","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human FactorsPub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1177/00187208251413484
Carolina Daza-Beltrán, Angélica Paola Fajardo Escolar, Martha Caro, Daniel R Suárez
{"title":"Situation Awareness Assessment for Anesthesia Residents (SAAAR): Development and Preliminary Evaluation of a Multimodal System.","authors":"Carolina Daza-Beltrán, Angélica Paola Fajardo Escolar, Martha Caro, Daniel R Suárez","doi":"10.1177/00187208251413484","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208251413484","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThis study reports the development and preliminary evaluation of SAAAR, a multimodal system designed to assess and support the development of situation awareness (SA).BackgroundSA is critical in anesthesiology, yet existing assessment methods lack standardized tools tailored to its complexities of anesthetic practice. Systems developed in other domains have limited applicability, highlighting the need for a purpose-built approach for anesthesia residents.MethodThe SAAAR comprises two components: a 16-item behavioral marker scale and a structured debriefing with eye-tracking. Thirteen anesthesiology faculty tested interrater and test-retest reliability, while five experts conducted content validation of the scale. Both components were implemented in a simulation-based training program for preliminary system evaluation.ResultsThe behavioral marker scale demonstrated moderate content validity and high reliability. Internal consistency was strong (McDonald's Ω = 0.928), test-retest reliability high (Spearman's ρ = 0.952), and interrater agreement moderate (Kendall's W = 0.412). Faculty reported the scale to be clear, comprehensive, and easy to use. Pilot implementation showed significant improvements across domains (Wilcoxon signed-rank test), indicating the system's potential to provide targeted feedback and guide educational interventions.ConclusionsGrounded in HFE principles, the SAAAR provides a structured approach to assessing SA in anesthesia residents and demonstrates preliminary potential to inform educational strategies. Further research is required to determine its impact on clinical performance.ApplicationThe SAAAR offers residency programs and human factors experts a practical tool for assessing SA and designing targeted training. Its adaptable framework suggests potential applicability in other high-pressure medical contexts, pending further evaluation.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"673-687"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13013635/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145893445","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Investigating Occupational Stress in ICU Nurses: A Comparative Analysis of Mental and Physical Stress Using Heart Rate Variability and Wrist-Worn Accelerometer Data.","authors":"Samira Ziyadidegan, Farzan Sasangohar, Pratima Saravanan, Valerie Danesh, Faisal Masud","doi":"10.1177/00187208261417155","DOIUrl":"10.1177/00187208261417155","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>ObjectiveThis study examined a novel method to differentiate between mental and physical stress using Baevsky's Enhanced Stress Technique.BackgroundOccupational stress events, whether mental or physical, are handled by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which have been shown to be associated with heart rate variability (HRV), but have not been previously differentiated.MethodNaturalistic HRV and accelerometer data were measured continuously using wrist-worn sensors during a typical 12-h direct-care nursing shift (28 ICU nurses). Physical and mental stress events were calculated using the Baevsky's Stress Index, and Activity Index was used to investigate their differences between mental and combined mental and physical stress.ResultsRoot mean square of successive differences between heartbeats (RMSSD), which is associated with the parasympathetic nervous system activity as well as low-frequency power/high-frequency power (LF/HF ratio), and the alpha value of detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA a2), which are associated with the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity, were the most predictive features of stress events (accounting for AUC of 85.46).ConclusionBaevsky's Enhanced Stress Technique shows promise in assessing occupational mental stress among ICU nurses. There were more persistent and significant physiological changes in HRV associated with combined mental and physical stress events.ApplicationFindings suggest a new stress measurement method for classifying occupational mental stress. Measurement using wrist-worn accelerometer and HRV data sources has pragmatic relevance to the design of real-time, noninvasive, and cost-efficient stress monitoring tools relevant to applications in high-stress work environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":56333,"journal":{"name":"Human Factors","volume":" ","pages":"545-562"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145991981","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}