Mentally tough behaviour in extreme environments: perceptions of elite high-altitude mountaineers

ABSTRACT

Although numerous studies have examined the importance of mental toughness (MT) in sport, relatively few studies have examined mentally tough behaviours. We therefore sought to identify the indicative behaviours of elite, mentally tough mountaineers, an under-researched group, by examining participants’ experiences and perceptions. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with 17 experienced high-altitude mountaineers (M_age = 45 years). Results were organised into three general dimensions, which concerned: (i) preparatory behaviours, (ii) social/interpersonal behaviours and (iii) intrapersonal behaviours. Behaviours such as meticulous preparation, consistently high work rates, quick recovery following setbacks, and thriving in challenging situations were found to be broadly consistent with previous research. Nevertheless, novel and nuanced themes, such as pragmatic perseverance, selflessness and tolerance emerged as salient new findings. Results are discussed in the context of existing models of MT and in relation to the challenges of measuring mentally tough behaviour.

KEYWORDS:

• Adventure
• challenge
• perseverance
• phenomenology
• stress tolerance

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lee Crust

Lee Crust, PhD, is a chartered sport and exercise psychologist, Chartered Scientist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Lincoln, UK, where he is also Director of the Mental Toughness Research Group (MTOUGH). His current research interests are aligned with positive psychology and the study of human strengths that underpin optimal performance in sport. Specific areas of interest include mental toughness, resilience, flow and psychological well-being.

Christian Swann

Christian Swann, PhD, is an associate research fellow at University of Wollongong, Australia, and an accredited sport and exercise scientist specialising in sport psychology. His research broadly focuses on sport psychology and the promotion of mental health in youth sport. Specific interests include the psychological states underlying exceptional performance (e.g. flow), goal-setting, mental toughness and resilience.

Jacquelyn Allen-Collinson

Jacquelyn Allen-Collinson, PhD, is a Professor in Sociology & Physical Culture at the University of Lincoln, UK, where she is also Director of the Health Advancement Research Team (HART). Her current research interests cohere around issues of embodiment and the sociology of the body, feminist phenomenology, the sociology of the senses, and identity/identity work.