Research in Outdoor Education
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p.77-90. 14p.
Abstract
n 1992 a review of research in adventure therapy offered a perspective that utilized work in psychotherapy as a lens to view the current state of the field. From that review, several recommendations were made to gain respect within the field of traditional mental health. This update examines the recommendations made in 1992 and updates them utilizing research that has taken place in adventure therapy and borrowing liberally from suggestions made for enhancing the field of psychotherapy. The article makes the following points. First, the field of adventure therapy must create a collective document that addresses its accomplishments and effectiveness. Technology allows world wide web connections that can facilitate the process of communication at levels we were unaware of in 1992. Second, the clinically significant events of adventure therapy need to be examined through a massive survey of consumers of our service in order to achieve credibility with mental health and those who hold the purse strings. If we do not do so, we risk benefiting our potential consumers, those who may not be able to access adventure therapy as a viable approach to treatment. Finally, the time is ripe with possibilities for researchers and several avenues are explored for shaping the future of the field.
Recommended Citation
Gillis, H. Lee and Thomsen, Donna
(1996)
"A Research Update of Adventure Therapy (1992-1995): Challenge Activities and Ropes Courses, Wilderness Expeditions, and Residential Camping Programs,"
Research in Outdoor Education: Vol. 3, Article 12.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.cortland.edu/reseoutded/vol3/iss1/12