The Effectiveness of Project Adventure's Behavior Management Programs for Male Offenders in Residential Treatment

Abstract

SUMMARY Recent studies analyzing juvenile delinquents participating in wilderness therapy programs have reported little statistical effectiveness. Interpretation of these findings may be unjustified due to definitional confusion more than a clear examination of program effectiveness. Using a research methodology similar to Jones, Lowe, and Risler (2004) Jones, C. D., Lowe, L. A. and Risler, E. A. 2004. The effectiveness of wilderness adventure therapy programs for young people involved in the juvenile justice system. Residential Treatment for Children & Youth, 22(2): 53–67. doi:10.1300/J007v22n02_04[Taylor & Francis Online] , [Google Scholar], this study demonstrates the statistically significant three-year effectiveness of an adventure-based behavior management program (BMtA) with juvenile re-arrest rates when compared to outdoor therapeutic camping programs and standard Youth Development Center (YDC) programs in the State of Georgia. The article also offers clarity concerning the range and types of adventure therapy programs and treatment differences. It further highlights the importance of understanding intervention/treatment fidelity in adventure therapy programs, particularly regarding program settings and key clinical factors.