A Narrative Approach to Understanding Identity Salient Events and Meaning-Making in Outdoor Adventure Education

Authors

  • Michael Froehly University of Utah
  • Jim Sibthorp University of Utah
  • Shannon Rochelle National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/JOREL-2025-12455

Keywords:

expeditionary programs, identity development, narrative identity, NOLS, turning points

Abstract

Outdoor Adventure Education (OAE) programs are important developmental contexts for youth. Researchers have long sought to understand the lasting impacts of programs and what moments are linked to these impacts. However, little research has examined the types of events that occur during OAE programs are most impactful to a participant’s identity. This study utilizes the Narrative Identity Framework to understand what events are most salient to NOLS alumni and what meaning participants make from these events. The authors collected 107 written turning point narratives and analyzed them qualitatively. Findings suggest that OAE programs contain a variety of events that are important for identity development. These events are most commonly associated with aspects of challenge, support, skill development, solo time, leadership experiences, and the immersive natural environment. These events impacted who participants understanding of who they were and who they wanted to become. 

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Published

2025-07-01

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 3 (2025)

Section

Regular Papers

License

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