Conquering the Self or Capturing the Moment? Understanding the Psychological Motives Behind Mountain Climbing in the Social Media Era

Professor Juneman Abraham, a social psychology expert from Bina Nusantara University, offers a layered perspective on the motivations behind mountain climbing, as discussed in the article Biar Eksis, Kugendong Kosmetik ke Gunung Papandayan, published by KOMPAS.com on 23 February 2025 in the Gaya Hidup column, written by Prayogi Dwi Sulistyo. Prof. Juneman explains that the deepest intrinsic meaning of mountain climbing lies in the process of conquering oneself, which demands careful preparation and a willingness to sacrifice time, energy, and comfort. This intrinsic motivation reflects humility before nature, framing climbing as an act of self-reflection and personal growth rather than a pursuit of external validation.

In the same article, Prof. Juneman contrasts this intrinsic meaning with the rising trend of extrinsic motivations, especially in the social media age. Many climbers, particularly beginners, are driven by the desire to create visually appealing content for online platforms. In these cases, climbing serves more as a performance for others than a personal journey, and a lack of preparation often accompanies this superficial approach. This behavior highlights a shift away from nature-centered or self-reflective climbing toward a more image-driven outdoor culture, influenced by digital recognition.

Despite this content-driven trend, Prof. Juneman also acknowledges that mountain climbing can offer psychological benefits, serving as a form of “healing” for those seeking respite from urban pressures, as highlighted by the article. By immersing themselves in natural beauty, climbers may experience physical and mental restoration, fostering mindfulness and providing temporary relief from daily stress. Ultimately, the article reveals that the decision to climb a mountain reflects an internal negotiation between intrinsic values, external influences, and personal needs, resulting in a dynamic spectrum of motivations shaping individual climbing experiences.

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