A study examining the effectiveness of wilderness therapy programs for rehabilitating delinquent adolescents analyzed 23 programs using meta-analysis. Moderate effect sizes in favor of wilderness therapy programs were found with respect to enhancing self-esteem/self-concept, improving interpersonal skills, and promoting behavior changes. A small…

Outdoor behavioral healthcare (OBH), using wilderness therapy and related outdoor programming, is an emerging treatment for adolescents with behavioral, psychological, and substance abuse disorders. A literature review examining OBH outcomes related to self-concept, interpersonal skills, substance abuse, criminal recidivism, and behavioral and…

The primary concern of this research was to examine the effect, on the self concept of delinquent male adolescents, of a relationship in which they perceive themselves as helpers to other human beings. A group of 20 delinquents were paired with patients at a mental hospital. A comparable control group was selected. All procedures and measurement…

Over 80 wilderness/adventure programs have emerged as a valuable alternative to traditional treatment for juvenile offenders, especially in combination with other services. Participants are referred from many points in the juvenile justice system by agents who should have a thorough understanding of wilderness programs so as to prepare the…

Espousing an interdisciplinary approach, the book contains selected writings, lectures, and speeches concerning clinical work with disturbed children and adolescents in institutional settings. Editorial comment introduces each of the following sections: a survey of the current status of the children's field both clinically and educationally; a…

Designed to provide information for teachers wanting to use adventure activities with students and to help teachers in developing programs with clear objectives, solid logistic support, and safe policies and procedures, this teaching guide focuses on the goal of having a permanent impact on the self-concepts, behaviors, and attitudes of troubled…

People are steadily being deprived of decision making opportunities. However, the freedom and sense of adventure to be found in the outdoors can help renew feelings of self-direction in our lives. Many theories about the nature of self have been evolved since Aristotle's time. Social benefits, self conceptualization and self assessment may all…

Through an intensive 19 day outdoor experience of backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, and white water canoeing, the Connecticut Wilderness School has provided a novel therapeutic approach for problem youth referred by a wide variety of state agencies. To determine if participants in this program become more internally oriented, develop a higher…