"Social Impacts of a Summer Camp for Youth With Tourette Syndrome" by Michael Griswold, C. Boyd Hegarty et al.

Research in Outdoor Education

Article Title

Exploring the Social Impacts of a Summer Camp for Youth With Tourette Syndrome

Authors

Michael Griswold, Kennebec Valley YMCA
C. Boyd Hegarty, University of New Hampshire
Chris Harrist, Texas A&M University
Nate Trauntvein, University of New Hampshire
David Griswold

DOI

10.1353/roe.2014.0002

Print Reference

p. 15-35. 21p.

Abstract

Although a wealth of research exists documenting the positive social outcomes promoted by summer camps, research specifically examining youths with Tourette Syndrome (TS) within the camp context is lacking. This study utilized a phenomenological approach to explore the social impacts of a weeklong camp specifically for youths with TS, involving focus groups with 18 campers aged 10–16, interviews with 10 staff members, and participant observations compiled by the researcher. Multiple themes and sub-themes concerning the social impacts of the camp experience were identified, including (a) relatedness (not alone and self-assurance); (b) social development (friendships, optimism, educational experience, and bullying); (c) programmatic outcomes (unique program opportunities and cabin bonding); and (d) various implications for professional practice and future research are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Griswold, Michael; Hegarty, C. Boyd; Harrist, Chris; Trauntvein, Nate; and Griswold, David (2014) "Exploring the Social Impacts of a Summer Camp for Youth With Tourette Syndrome," Research in Outdoor Education: Vol. 12, Article 4.
DOI: 10.1353/roe.2014.0002
Available at: https://digitalcommons.cortland.edu/reseoutded/vol12/iss1/4

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