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Exploring adventure therapy as an early intervention for struggling adolescents

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Abstract

This paper presents an account of a research project that explored the experiences of adolescents struggling with behavioural and emotional issues, who participated in a 14-day adventure therapy program in Australia referred to by the pseudonym, “Onward Adventures.” All participants of this program over the age of 16 who completed within the last two years were asked to complete a survey. Additionally, the parents of these participants were invited to complete a similar survey. The qualitative surveys were designed to question participants’ and parents’ perceptions of the program (pre- and post-), the relationships (therapeutic alliance) built with program therapists, follow-up support, and outcomes of the program. Both participants and parents reported strong relationships with program leaders, stressed the importance of effective follow-up services, and perceived positive outcomes when it came to self-esteem and social skills, seeing comparable improvement in self-concept, overall behaviour, and coping skills.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Charles Sturt University, Australia

    Will Dobud MSW

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  1. Will Dobud MSW
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Correspondence to Will Dobud MSW.

Additional information

Will Dobud MSW is currently the program director for a small adventure therapy organisation in South Australia providing adventure therapy programs and therapeutic services for adolescents and families across Australia. In 2015, Will was awarded with the Australian Postgraduate Award from Charles Sturt University towards the completion of his higher degree by research. Willis currently sitting as the South Australian Representative to the Australian Association for Bush Adventure Therapy, Inc. In addition to his work within adventure therapy, Will presents internationally about his work with children and adolescents.

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Dobud, W. Exploring adventure therapy as an early intervention for struggling adolescents. Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education 19, 33–41 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03400985

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