NCJ Number
82406
Date Published
1980
Length
45 pages
Annotation
The report describes the current state-of-the-art with respect to wilderness-adventure programming for juvenile offenders. It is intended for persons interested in noninstitutional programs for such offenders as well as for practitioners.
Abstract
The report presents an historical overview of adventure programming, discusses the conceptual framework of such programs and their components, and comments on research and evaluation done on these programs. These programs present juveniles with a series of progressively difficult physical challenges and problems. The assumption is that when faced with these tasks an individual will call upon reserves of strength and willpower which were previously untapped. Wilderness programs are a useful approach toward developing independence and responsibility but are not a panacea to the problems of juvenile delinquency. As a short-term intervention strategy, these programs are a least restrictive alternative to long-term incarceration. They can be supplemented by other services, such as alcohol and drug counseling or vocational training. Although research efforts in this area have been too limited, there is some evidence to suggest that wilderness programs can improve youths' self-concept and recidivism rates. More research in this area should be conducted. About 40 references and a resource directory are appended. Footnotes are included.