Differences in the Level of Motive Importance Based on Trip Outcome, Experience Level and Group Type

Abstract

This study investigated whether there are differences in the levels of motive importance based on trip success and group membership. Success was defined as reaching the summit of Mt. McKinley. Group type was categorized into guided, independent, or solo climbers. Data were analyzed on individual motives. In addition, a principal components factor analysis with varimax rotation generated five factors that were then used as an organizing framework for further analyses. Levels of motive importance on both the factors and individual items were compared on outcome, experience-level and group type. Relative to trip outcome, significant differences in motive importance were observed on 20 of 31 items and three of the five factors. Climbers reporting failure indicated higher levels of importance for disengagement, photography, wilderness and scenery. Using group type, two factors (Exhilaration/Excitement and Social Aspects) and 10 items generated significant differences. Individuals from guided groups reported higher levels of motive importance than solo climbers. The exception to this pattern was for the Catharsis/Escape factor, where solo climbers generally reported higher values. It was argued that the data provide partial support for a “motivational matching” concept.

KEYWORDS:

• Motivation
• Mountaineering
• Risk Recreation
• Trip Outcome