What is meant by 'Situational Compression'?

Situational compression refers to a phenomenon where time pressures distort decision-making, particularly in high-stress or rapidly evolving situations. When individuals are faced with critical decisions, the perceived time available to think and act often feels significantly reduced. This can lead to hasty judgments or errors as the brain attempts to rapidly process information under the compressive effect of looming deadlines or immediate threats.

In aviation and other high-stakes environments, understanding situational compression is vital. It highlights the importance of training that prepares individuals to handle time pressure effectively, ensuring they maintain clarity and focus despite the constrained time they feel they have to make decisions. Recognizing and mitigating the effects of situational compression can lead to better outcomes in safety and performance.