The Therapeutic Potential of Outdoor Adventure: A Review, with a Focus on Adults with Mental Illness

Authors

  • Michael P. Kelley

Keywords:

Outdoor Recreation, Mental Illness, Adventure Programs, TherapeuticRecreation

Abstract

A review of the literature concerning outdoor adventure programs for adults with mental illness suggests a variety of benefits, including reduced symptomatology and enhanced ability to function in the community. However, due to serious methodological shortcomings of the studies with this population, further research is needed to verify such benefits. It is suggested that therapeutic outdoor adventure programs offer an innovative and potentially powerful adjunctive psychotherapeutic treatment for persons with mental illness, but more rigorous research is needed to demonstrate the benefits of this unusual treatment modality. Specific suggestions concerning the methodology of future research in this area are offered.

Issue

Section

Other