Person-group fit predicted the joint trajectories of group cohesion and interpersonal conflicts among personnel during a prolonged mission in isolated and confined environment under sea: a parallel-process growth mixture modeling approach

The parallel-process growth mixture models was employed to investigate the joint trajectories of group cohesion and interpersonal conflicts and group heterogeneity of the trajectories in isolated and confined environments (ICEs). The predictive role of person-group fit on these trajectories were examined by logistic regression models. 209 Chinese male workers in capsule habitats under sea were recruited and completed 5-wave tests during a 56-day under-sea mission. 2 latent subgroups were identifed: (1) Unstable group (n = 133, 65.84%) partly conformed to the third-quarter phenomenon; (2) Stable group (n = 69, 34.16%) kept stably low interpersonal conflicts and high group cohesion throughout the entire mission. Participants with higher levels of baseline person-group fit were more likely to belong to Stable group. The third quarter of the mission may be a critical stage for group cohesion in ICEs. Person-group fit should be considered as predictors in personnel selection for ICEs.