The Effects of Utilizing High Element Ropes Courses as a Treatment Intervention on Self-Efficacy

Authors

  • Jesy Cordle Clemson University
  • Marieke Van Puymbroeck
  • Brent Hawkins Clemson University
  • Elizabeth Baldwin, PhD Clemson University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2016-V50-I1-6439

Keywords:

high ropes courses, adventure based therapy, outdoor programming, self-efficacy, recreational therapy

Abstract

Adventure-Based Therapy (ABT) is a treatment intervention in Recreational Therapy (RT) that has the capacity to produce a variety of physical, psychological, cognitive, and social outcomes. While there is research on the potential benefits of ABT and ropes course experiences, there is a lack of research on which course types lead to specific results, which may result in inconsistent programming. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to determine the impact of a static belay high ropes course experience on self-efficacy and to explore the different parts of the course experience that were beneficial in developing self-efficacy. Assessments reflected a significant increase in self-efficacy following the ropes course experience. Focus groups and follow-up interviews reflected the different factors of ropes course experiences that led to the differences between pre- and postassessment scores. These results supported that high ropes course programming can impact self-efficacy development, including mastery experiences, vicarious experiences, verbal persuasion, and emotional and physiological arousal. Based on these findings, recreational therapists should consider the use of the high ropes course as a tool to improve self-efficacy. Additional implications for practice and future research are included.

Author Biographies

Jesy Cordle, Clemson University

J. L. Cordle conducted this research for her Master’s thesis in recreational therapy at Clemson University.

Marieke Van Puymbroeck

M. Van Puymbroeck is the recreational therapy coordinator and an associate professor at Clemson University.

Brent Hawkins, Clemson University

B. Hawkins is an assistant professor of recreational therapy at Clemson University.

Elizabeth Baldwin, PhD, Clemson University

E. Baldwin is an associate professor of parks, conservation, and recreation management at Clemson University.

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Published

2016-01-29

Issue

Vol. 50 No. 1 (2016)

Section

Regular Papers

License

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