Exploring the psychological rewards of a wilderness experience: an Interpretive phenomenological analysis

This study was concerned with the subjective experiences of five women (N = 5) on a 10-day Scottish wilderness trip focussing on well-being and environmental perceptions. Semistructured interviews, using an ethnographic approach, were subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis (Smith, Jarman, & Osborn, 1999). The group shared common positive experiences characterized by feelings of connection, aliveness, contemplativeness, self-discovery, confidence, and well-being, although some deeper emotional experiences remained ineffable. Although participants' positive experiences were tied to an intimacy with the natural environment, others expressed an additional social influence, derived from bonds formed within the group. These findings are important for a better understanding of the effects that such wilderness experiences can have on people's psychological well-being and the development of positive people–environment relationships.