Adolescent Experiences in Wilderness Therapy: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Wilderness therapy with adolescents is emerging as a bonafide counseling modality, both in terms of practice and research evidence. The researchers bring together qualitative literature to identify the meaningful elements for adolescent clients and their families who participate in wilderness therapy. This review describes the search and selection process and the resultant nine included studies to provide an initial synthesis of the methods and findings of this literature. Most studies used small samples with interviews as the primary data-gathering tool. The studies included common themes of family functioning, improved communication and relationships, person-environment connection and experiential components, transitions, and changes to the self-concept. The systematic review concludes with suggestions for future research and implications for practitioners.