Challenging journeys: stress, coping and expeditions

Abstract

This thesis examined stress and coping situated in an expedition context which thus far is under-represented in research literature. The three studies draw extensively upon transactional stress models and contemporary derivatives to generate a holistic understanding of expedition coping. Adopting a qualitative methodology to capture expedition narratives, the main aim of the research was to explore the stress and coping processes using a range of transactional approaches as adventurers participate in demanding journeys. The three studies employed both ethnographic and pluralistic case studies to provide a naturalistic perspective of the lived expedition experience. Study one focused on the exploits of a solo adventurer travelling in the High Pyrenees. The findings illustrated the emotional intensity of solo journeys, recognising the centrality of emotions in the coping process. It became apparent that both emotional regulation and self-regulation are integral to the appraisal process, resulting in a clear sense of significance and meaning for the participant. The second study considered the challenges of leading youth expeditions in wilderness settings. This identified the prominence of commitment and coping resources when leading expeditions. Further, study two established the importance of personal values, beliefs and motivation in the coping process as an essential quality when taking responsibility for young explorers. The final study analysed the experiences of two elite runners in their quest to complete a record breaking “fast” expedition. Using broader, integrated transactional models to provide temporal congruity, the findings reinforced the importance of dyadic relationships in fostering robust collective coping. This was one of a number of resources which were found to contribute towards preventative, reactive and proactive coping. Additionally, social support in various guises was found to be an important factor to all three journeys. Collectively, by using micro-analytical, naturalistic inquiry the three studies revealed that most participants recognised that expedition coping has a profound meaning, potentially leading to a sense of growth and purpose. Detailed analysis using integrated perspectives highlighted a number of significant patterns revealing a range of important coping considerations. These included: self-regulation, dyadic coping, coping flexibility, conservation of resources, meaning making and stress-related growth. The findings will have an applied efficacy for the expedition community who can benefit from the detailed insights into expedition stress and coping.