Qualitative Analysis of a Camp for Adults with Spinal Cord Injuries

Authors

  • Kelsey Alexander Grand Valley State University
  • Shay Dawson Central Michigan University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2026-V60-I1-12837

Keywords:

Medical specialty camp, spinal cord injury, therapeutic recreation/recreational therapy

Abstract

Medical specialty camps provide short-term positive psychosocial benefits for participants (McAuliffe-Fogarty et al., 2007), while more long-term benefits appear to be fleeting (Dawson, 2017). In studies of participation in life after spinal cord injury (SCI), a commonality among responses emphasized the importance of finding a support network post injury (Amsters et al., 2021). Medical specialty camps may be one way to provide support, yet criticism on diminishing effects after camp participation ends remains a concern (Plante et al., 2001). Few studies have utilized qualitative means to examine possible reasons for lack of carry over psychosocial impact. This study utilized a general inductive qualitative analysis of 11 adults with SCI 2-5 years post camp participation. Interviews were conducted with individuals with differing levels of spinal cord injury. Qualitative analyses yielded 3 major themes from campers with SCI: 1) Nuances of the Camp Social Inoculation Experience, 2) Facilitators to a Successful SCI Specific Camp, and 3) Challenges of Returning Home After Camp Ends. Discussion focuses on perceived benefits of camp participation, positive structure of camp, and issues related to lack of carry over impact after camp ends. It is recommended that future practices and research focus on improving access to the SCI community social networks made at camp after returning to home communities.

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Published

2026-02-16

Issue

Vol. 60 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Qualitative Papers

License

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