The characteristics of optimal developmental experiences are examined in a group of international Sea Kayaking Guides. This paper considers how these experiences contributed to the development of decision-making. A mixed approach was utilised that included a survey followed by a series of semi-structured interviews that are thematically analysed.…

The inaugural Brian Nettleton Lecture links two of Brian's views: (1) that it is important to get to know a certain area to be more a part of it and of nature; and (2) that areas suitable for outdoor adventure lie unnoticed near the centre of Melbourne. Nature needs our help given the serious and escalating threats. Increasing evidence shows that…

Today, outdoor therapies are practiced in many nations around the world, with a broad diversity of philosophies, theories, methods, functions, and formats (Norton et al., 2015). The field of therapy within the outdoors has been much discussed and debated within the experiential profession (Itin, 1998). The disputes and deliberations have centred…

In an earlier paper I identified two key forms of "meaningful experience" for participants on a wilderness river rafting journey, namely a feeling of humility and being alive to the present. However, space considerations led me to describe only the first of these forms in any detail. In this paper I identify and describe the qualities of…