Psychotherapeutic Applications of Adventure Activities With Groups: Everything Old Is New Again

摘要

Background: Adventure therapy (AT) is group psychotherapy. It shares processes and outcomes with experiential group approaches that have existed for many years. The goal here is to explore effective group dynamics inherent in AT theory, research, and practice. Method: A selected review of existing research focusing on meta-analyses and publications representing a broader view of AT is examined. This view includes a wide variety of programs operating outdoors and inside serving adolescents, young adults, veterans, and families with various psychological issues. Findings: Meta-analyses of outcome studies in AT consistently find medium effect sizes. Most wilderness-based programs have a homogenous population of adolescent males but recent studies on community-based and veteran programs provide a more diverse population. Conclusions: Future research awaits the development of a clearer understanding of how therapeutic processes in AT impact change for specific populations in various settings at various times. Arandomized control trial is currently underway comparing adventure therapy (i.e., outdoor behavioral healthcare) with cognitive behavior therapy.