‘Everything we do will have an element of fear in it’: challenging assumptions of <i>fear for all</i> in outdoor adventurous education

Challenge, adventure, and risk in outdoor adventurous education (OAE) have long been recognised as foundational components the framing of valuable transformational experiences for participants. Whilst literature has identified benefits these types learning experiences, what remained largely absent is an interrogation emerging emotional effects surrounding fear response. This paper presents examined interrelationships facilitator perspectives on how influences developmental potential participants OAE. Multiple-case study research interviewed four OAE facilitators observed participants’ fear-related practice through a caving activity. The findings demonstrate distinct complex tension between intentional facilitation diverse impact can Two primary outcomes emerged: historically situated assumptions all approach are challenged, was to isolate marginalise unable successfully interact with fear.