Adventurers Seek Meaning in Risky Pursuits, Research Reveals

Climbers and thrill-seekers are drawn to extreme activities not just for the adrenaline rush but for deeper psychological fulfillment. Research led by Christopher Newman, a marketing professor at the University of Mississippi, highlights how engaging in hazardous pursuits can lead to personal growth, identity transformation, and a greater appreciation for life.

Newman, alongside researchers Steven W. Kopp from the University of Arkansas and Justine Rapp Farrell and Kenneth Bates from the University of San Diego, published their findings in the journal Psychology & Marketing. Their study delves into the motivations behind adventure tourism, showing that the journey often outweighs the thrill of danger itself.

The inspiration for this research stemmed from Newman’s personal experience climbing Mount Rainier, the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,441 feet. During this five-day expedition, which presented numerous risks such as snowstorms and avalanches, Newman observed how climbers prepared, collaborated, and engaged in self-discovery through their shared challenges.

“We faced the possibility of serious injury or death, and despite that, only about one in four climbers on our expedition failed to reach the summit for various reasons,” Newman noted. This experience prompted discussions among the researchers about the allure of such extreme adventures.

To gain insight into climbers’ motivations, the team conducted in-depth interviews with eight participants months after the climb. They sought to understand not just the immediate thrill, but also the long-term psychological rewards that come from engaging in high-risk activities like mountaineering.

Utilizing terror management theory, the researchers posited that individuals often pursue these activities to construct their identities and cope with their awareness of mortality. “Experiences that challenge your mortality can offer intangible benefits that other, less risky experiences simply cannot,” Newman explained.

The study reveals that participants find satisfaction in the preparation, teamwork, and risk management required for climbing, rather than the peril itself. “Many extreme adventurers are not in it for the danger; they take pride in managing risk through proper preparation and execution of practiced skills,” he stated.

This heightened awareness of mortality further enriches the experience, strengthening participants’ identities and their sense of belonging within their adventure community. “In mountaineering, adhering to the values of disciplined preparation and skill execution reduces anxiety linked to danger,” Newman added.

The findings hold implications for adventure tourism operators. Ken Cyree, dean of the School of Business Administration at the University of Mississippi, emphasized that understanding these motivations can help marketers tailor their approaches to appeal to adventure seekers. “Dr. Newman’s research illustrates how mountaineering creates satisfaction and value in the specialized market for adventure tourists,” Cyree noted.

Kopp highlighted that the preparation involved in such pursuits is closely tied to consumer satisfaction. “The anticipation and planning leading up to the event—whether it’s physical training or gear selection—are integral to the overall experience,” he said.

The research not only sheds light on the psychology behind thrill-seeking but also encourages individuals to appreciate life’s fleeting nature. By embracing risks, climbers often find motivation to forge meaningful relationships and contribute positively to their communities.

These insights not only enhance understanding of adventure tourism but also provide valuable lessons for anyone contemplating life’s challenges. The full findings are detailed in the study titled “Love Affair With Thin Air: Mortality, Mastery, and the Consumerism of Mountaineering,” published on November 19, 2025.