Chronopsychological Approach for Optimizing Human Performance.

A new interdisciplinary science of chronopsychology is discussed with respect to its methods, concepts, theories, and applications, especially to shiftwork and transmeridian dyschronism jet lag. Chronopshychology is introduced to show the impact of circadian rhythmic components, as seen in shiftwork and transmeridian flight environements, on human performance efficiency, feeling tones, fatigue, and sleepiness. The source materials on circadian components of human effectiveness in shiftwork and in a rapid deployment across many time zones suggest that the timing of the work period should be optimized on the basis of the fundamental circadian rhythms to assure the best time for work and rest. Differences between the adjustment of shiftworkers and jet travelers to new work environments are discussed, with suggestions on how to accelerate this process.