Spiritual Outcomes of a Faith-Based Camp Program for Children of Incarcerated Parents

Abstract

Children of incarcerated parents are likely to experience a number of adverse outcomes including poverty, substance abuse, community violence, multiple caregivers, school failure, and justice system involvement (Hairston, 2007; Martin, 2017; Murphey & Cooper, 2015). The experience of having a parent incarcerated, and the negative outcomes associated with it, disproportionately expose these children to adverse childhood events (ACE’s) known to result in higher morbidity and mortality (Turney, 2018). However, spiritual resources, along with engagement with caring adults, can increase a child’s resilience and buffer the impact of these negative outcomes. This exploratory study describes Camp Agape California (CAC), a faith-based camping program for children with an incarcerated parent. Specifically, this study explores the perceived impact of this faith-based camp program on the spiritual outcomes of the children who participate in the camp. The program components of CAC are described, which provide a model for spiritual development for this population. Further, data on the perceived spiritual outcomes of camp participation of167 children and youth who took part in CAC programs are presented. Results suggest that the faith-based camp program provided by CAC enhanced participants’ spiritual identity and use of spiritual activities known to support healthy development. Implications and future directions of this type of intervention are explored.