Following recovery from a threat, it is possible that, in space as elsewhere, blaming or scapegoating will occur. Other occurrences that could cause a serious disturbance on-board include a severe psychiatric event or the death of a crewmember or a loved one at home. In maintaining the mental health of space travelers, success in the work role and maintaining good relationships with other crewmembers will be of primary importance. Also of concern are the immediate reactions to the death of another and the predictable, but disruptive, reactions associated with grief. Informally evolved means of achieving interpersonal coordination will be supplemented, if not replaced, by externally imposed rules and regulations, and structural considerations will come to the fore.
Social structure is reflected in the distribution of authority and tasks.
The multileveled hierarchy is the most common form of authority structure. However, alternate models exist and their application to space deserves careful consideration. Centralization of authority is desirable to the extent that central authorities have good communication with remote units and a good understanding of their situation. However, as missions last longer and become more remote from Earth, the effectiveness of Earth-based, centralized authority may decline. Truly large crews will require leadership at many different levels.