title: Narrative transformation among military personnel on an adventurous training and sport course.
abstract: In the wake of recent wars, some military personnel face considerable physical and mental health problems. In this article I explore the effects of an adapted sport and inclusive adventurous training course for military personnel who have experienced physical injury and/or psychological trauma. Using a dialogical narrative approach, I analyzed stories shared by six soldiers during the course to explore the effects of involvement. Participation in the course seemed to facilitate a narrative transformation or opening corresponding to a broadening identity and sense of self. Story plots progressed from a failing monological narrative, through a chaos narrative, toward a dialogical quest narrative prioritizing immersion in an intense present, a developing self, and a relational orientation. On the basis of narrative theory, I suggest this transformation holds positive consequences for the health and well-being of military personnel who have experienced injury and/or trauma.
authors.affiliation: Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds, United Kingdom d.carless@leedsmet.ac.uk.
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Carless
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D063545:Personal Narratives as Topic; D010806:Physical Education and Training
keywords: exercise / physical activity; health and well-being; mental health and illness; narrative inquiry; psychosocial issues; stories / storytelling; trauma; war, victims of