Thesis (Ph.D.) - Indiana University, School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 2007The purpose of this study was twofold. First, to establish an understanding of what is meant when someone describes a backcountry adventure as spiritual. The second purpose of this study was to better understand the relationships between the attributes, consequences, and values (ACV) of the spiritual aspects of a backcountry adventure. Interviews were conducted with 63 backcountry users in the region of Teton Pass, Wyoming. Data analysis consisted of two main stages. First, informant statements were coded for content analysis. A total of 23 content categories were generated: six attributes, nine consequences and eight values. These concepts compose the spiritual experience of backcountry adventures expressed in the data. Inter-rater reliability was calculated at 99.22%. For stage two, implication matrices were generated for the frequency of association between the ACV concepts represented in each hierarchical value map (HVM). An analysis of informant subgroups was conducted based on gender, age, years of backcountry experience, type of activity leading to spiritual experience, and level of skill associated with that activity. A total of 18 HVMs were generated for analysis, two for the overall data and one for each of the 16 subgroups examined for the purposes of identifying possible differences. These HVM were interpreted visually and numerically based on frequency and strength of ACV associations. The eight values identified represent a construct of spirituality; most frequently expressed were a transcendent experience (63%), increased awareness (46%), connection to others (43%), and a sense of fulfillment (29%). The major consequences were focus (38%), reflection (30%), tranquility (32%) and an appreciation of beauty (32%). The more prevalent attributes were the natural backcountry setting (95%) and the adventure (35%). The attribute of a social interaction (29%) was identified as important for the benefit of sharing an experience (27%) and the resulting value of improved sense of connection to others. Mental and physical exercise (35%), resulting in the benefits of enhanced sense of wellbeing (22%), were also recognized as contributing to the spiritual meaning. The backcountry provided the benefit of enjoyment (25%). Other ACV concepts and ACV associations that contribute to spiritual meaning were identified
