Shedding the Layers: Exploring the Impact of the Burn Camp Experience on Adolescent Campers' Body Image

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of the burn camp experience, as it relates to body image, on participating burn-injured adolescents. Focus groups were conducted with 52 burn-injured adolescents at three burn camps in geographically diverse regions of the United States. Data revealed that burn camp is a place where these adolescents feel a sense of belonging and acceptance, a place where they don't have to hide their bodies, and a place where they can learn to integrate their scars into their overall body image in a positive way. Implications of this study include highlighting the contributions that burn camps may provide in helping burn-injured adolescents learn to cope with the devastating disfigurements that often accompany their injuries.