Therapeutic Adventure Annotated Bibliography Michael C. Young
Therapeutic Adventure Annotated Bibliography
Michael Young
Spring 2007
Introduction
This bibliography lists empirical studies focused on experiential programs that generally can be categorized as either Adventure Therapy or Therapeutic Adventure (AT/TA) Programs.[1] Studies were not included here if they already appeared in Moore & Russell’s lengthy 2002 annotated bibliography: “Studies of the use of wilderness for personal growth, therapy, education, and leadership development: An annotation and evaluation,” which is available at: www.its.uidaho.edu/wrc/publications.
Although literature from the juvenile justice field was included, “Boot Camp” related studies were not. Furthermore, although some studies about camps as interventions are included here, the camping literature was not specifically queried. Also, even if a study explored therapeutic constructs, unless it was conducted with an at risk, special needs, or clinical population, it was not included (a couple exceptions were made due to a study’s overt attempt to making conclusions relevant to therapeutic programming, see for example: Kemp (1998) and Neill & Heubeck (1998).
Finally, here are two additional sources that contain AT/TA empirical studies not found either here or in Moore & Russell (2002):
Shore, A. (1977). Outward bound: A reference volume. Greenwich, CT: Outward Bound.
Richards, K., & Smith, B. (2003). Therapy within adventure: Proceedings of the international adventure therapy conference (2nd, augsburg, germany, march 20-24, 2000).
Empirical Studies
1. Citation
Adams, A., Sveen, R. L., & Denholm, C. J. (1998). The aftermath of the port arthur incident: The response by project hahn to adolescent needs, Exploring the Boundaries of Adventure Therapy: International Perspectives. Proceedings of the International Adventure Therapy Conference (1st, Perth, Australia, July 1997).
Abstract
This paper provides background information about the Project Hahn adventure-based program and its ongoing involvement with the Port Arthur Recovery Group to assist 42 adolescents directly affected by the murders of 36 people by a lone gunman in Tasmania in 1996. Case studies relate personal, social, and community issues faced by these adolescents, as well as post-course challenges as they attempted to implement personal changes within their community. The philosophy and practices of the Project Hahn therapy program are given: work with at-risk and socioeconomically disadvantaged youth, pre-course agreement among all participants, promotion of positive peer dynamics, instructional use of risk-recreation activities, freedom of task choice, peer and leader support, follow up with participants, and cultivation of moral growth through small-group peer interaction. One case study documents how participation by a 15-year-old student in adventure activities helped her to reevaluate her experiences with the Port Arthur shooting and redefine personal issues of trust, vulnerability, and protective and defensive behaviors. Project Hahn will use planned intervention throughout each wilderness challenge course to experiment with a range of new ideas and behaviors; confront salient and pressing issues; and provide time and opportunity within a supportive and safe environment for adolescents identified by the Port Arthur Recovery Group to express fears, pain, and the traumatic impact of the shooting tragedy. (SAS)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 0
· Case studies or clinical examples included 4
· Experimental Design 0
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting 0
· Training Models 1
· Power of Research Design N/A
· Instrumentation N/A
· Cultural Variability 0
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 1
· Background Literature Support 1
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed N/A
- Citation
Allen, J. S. (1991). The effects of wilderness therapy program on changes in self-esteem and teacher-rated behavior of youth at risk., California School of Professional Psychology - Fresno, US.
Abstract
This study examined the effects of a wilderness therapy program--Camp Esteem--on changes in self-esteem and teacher-rated behavior of youth at risk for emotional and behavioral difficulties. A quasi-experimental method with treatment and comparison groups was utilized. Results indicated positive pretest to posttest changes in self-esteem and teacher-rated behavior. The experimental group demonstrated elevations on two self-esteem scales in contrast to the comparison group.
This investigation also describes initial findings that highlight certain conditions that may impede the personal change process during a wilderness therapy program. Consideration of participants' degree of conflict with authority, athletic competency, and camping experience is suggested. The students' evaluation of the wilderness program revealed an overall positive response with particular focus on the value of communication, cooperation and problem-solving groups, relationships with counselors, and physical challenge activities.
This study provides empirical confirmation of the limited research that reports positive effects of wilderness therapy on changes in self and behavior of youth at risk. The use of community-based wilderness programs represents an alternative approach for dealing with a treatment-resistant population--youth at risk. Suggestions for future research are discussed.
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 1
· Case studies or clinical examples included 0
· Experimental Design 2
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting 2
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design 1
· Instrumentation 1
· Cultural Variability 1
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 0
· Background Literature Support 2
· Replication 0
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed 0
3. Citation
Asher, S. J. H., Gayle Quick McNally, Marte. (1994). Therapeutic considerations of wilderness experiences for incest and rape survivors. Women & Therapy, 15(3-4), 161-174.
Abstract
Examines the relevancy of traditional wilderness programs, such as Outward Bound, to women who have been violated by experiences of childhood incest and/or adult sexual assault. Applications to African-American women, women with physical challenges, and women who are economically disenfranchised are emphasized. A 3-day Colorado Outward Bound Program was incorporated into a rape assistance and awareness program in Denver. Although viewed positively, the applicability of the program to women with physical disabilities and others was questioned. The article contends that wilderness experiences in their traditional application do not support a feminist, woman-centered approach to life. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2002 APA, all rights reserved)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation N/A
· Case studies or clinical examples included 3
· Experimental Design N/A
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting N/A
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design N/A
· Instrumentation N/A
· Cultural Variability 2
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity N/A
· Background Literature Support 2
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed N/A
4. Citation
Autry, C. E. (2001). Adventure therapy with girls at-risk: Responses to outdoor experiential activities. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 35(4), 289-306.
Abstract
This interpretive study explored the feelings, attitudes, and perceptions of 9 at-risk girls (aged 13-18 yrs) following their participation in outdoor experiential activities in the context of adventure therapy. The experiential activities included 4-day backpacking trips and high and low ropes course initiatives. The girls resided in a same-gender outdoor-based psychiatric rehabilitation facility. In-depth interviews were conducted and the qualitative data were analyzed through constant comparison. Four major themes encompassing perceptions of trust, empowerment, teamwork, and the recognition of personal value were constructed from the data. Practical and theoretical implications for therapeutic recreation include concepts surrounding issues of empowerment and constructivism. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2007 APA, all rights reserved)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 0
· Case studies or clinical examples included 4
· Experimental Design 0
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting N/A
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design N/A
· Instrumentation N/A
· Cultural Variability 1
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 0
· Background Literature Support 4
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed 0
5. Citation
Bandoroff, S., & Scherer, D. G. (1994). Wilderness family therapy: An innovative treatment approach for problem youth. Journal of Child & Family Studies, 3(2), 175-191.
Abstract
Presents a treatment program (The Family Wheel) designed to integrate wilderness therapy interventions with family therapy for the treatment of troubled adolescents. Participation in this 4-day program required parents and their adolescent children (aged 13-18 yrs) to engage in an intensive experiential family therapy while camping and trekking in the wilderness. The family intervention group consisted of 27 families. Information on family functioning, adolescent behavior, and adolescent self-esteem was also gathered from 39 families who decided not to participate in the family program. Ss who completed the program were administered the Family Wheel Evaluation. An evaluation of the program revealed positive outcomes for participants. Parent ratings of problem behavior also improved for both groups. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2002 APA, all rights reserved)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 0
· Case studies or clinical examples included 0
· Experimental Design 2
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting 0
· Training Models 1
· Power of Research Design 1
· Instrumentation 3
· Cultural Variability 1
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 1
· Background Literature Support 3
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed 1
6. Citation
Behar, L., & Stephens, D. (1978). Wilderness camping: An evaluation of a residential treatment program for emotionally disturbed children. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 48(4), 644.
Abstract
The article reports on an evaluation study of a wilderness camping residential treatment program for emotionally disturbed boys, involving a follow-up study of 46 camp "graduates." It utilizes background information and interviews of “significant others” (not intimate partners but rather parents, social workers, teachers etc.) in clients’ life. Clients finished program from between 1972 and 1975 but analysis did not indicate which clients’ results coordinated with which time-span post-discharge. Clients improved in all measured categories except delinquency.
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 0
· Case studies or clinical examples included 0
· Experimental Design 0
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting 1
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design 1
· Instrumentation 0
· Cultural Variability 1
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 0
· Background Literature Support 1
· Replication 2
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed 1
7. Citation
Barker, A. S. (1995). Success of emotionally disturbed adolescents in a therapeutic wilderness program. (A report retrieved from ERIC)
Abstract
A study was conducted to determine whether long-term residential therapeutic wilderness programming best serves males or females. The Hope Center Wilderness Programs in east Texas use a reality therapy-based peer group culture. Forty emotionally disturbed and juvenile delinquent youths were surveyed, 20 of each gender. On an 11-item questionnaire, students indicated that the areas the wilderness program helped them with most were, in rank order, communicating with family, controlling temper, staying out of legal trouble, school, and remaining drug free. No significant gender difference was found in participants' success in the program. Boys had a higher rate of serious incidents and were more likely to be on probation or parole. Adolescents in placement as well as their families believed that they benefitted from treatment through the wilderness programs. Appendices include a brochure describing the Hope Center's Wilderness Programs and the study questionnaire. (Contains 18 references.) (SW)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation 0
· Case studies or clinical examples included 0
· Experimental Design 0
· Benefit-Cost Analysis 0
· Results Reporting 1
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design 1
· Instrumentation 0
· Cultural Variability 0
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 0
· Background Literature Support 1
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed 0
8. Citation
Bickman, L., De Andrade, A. R. V., Lambert, E. W., Doucette, A., Sapyta, J., Boyd, A. S., et al. (2004). Youth therapeutic alliance in intensive treatment settings. Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, 31(2), 134.
Abstract
Therapeutic alliance (TA), the helping relationship that develops between a client and clinician, has received little attention in child treatment studies until recently, though it is the factor found to be most predictive of clinical outcomes. Furthermore, TA is cited as one of the most important components to effective therapy according to practicing clinicians. This study examines the TA that develops between teacher/counselors and children in 2 settings, a partial hospital/day school and a wilderness camp. An important finding in this study is the lack of relationship between the teacher/counselor's view of TA and the youth's view. Moreover, this correlation does not improve according to how long the counselors have known or have treated the youth. The implications of this and other findings are discussed. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR Copyright of Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research is the property of Springer Science & Business Media B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts)
Bibliography Rubric Categories Rubric Score
· Evidence Based Research Evaluation N/A
· Case studies or clinical examples included 0
· Experimental Design 3
· Benefit-Cost Analysis N/A
· Results Reporting 2
· Training Models 0
· Power of Research Design 2
· Instrumentation 3
· Cultural Variability 1
· Treatment/intervention Fidelity 1
· Background Literature Support 4
· Replication 1
· Length of Treatment Effectiveness Assessed N/A
9. Citation
Boudette, R. D. (1989). The therapeutic effects of outward bound with juvenile offenders. California School of Professional Psychology, Berkeley, CA.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of an Outward Bound course as a supplemental component of a traditional probation program. Further, an attempt was made to examine two premises put forth in a theory explaining the Outward Bound process: (a) participants must be motivationally ready in order to experience the therapeutic benefits of an Outward Bound course; and (b) participation in Outward Bound leads to increased self-esteem, self-awareness, and sense of belonging.