Citation

Ewert A. Ecopsychology 2014; 6(3): 155-164.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014)

DOI

10.1089/eco.2013.0035

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper describes a study investigating the application and effect of an Adventure Education (AE) program on the restoration and rehabilitation of redeploying military veterans. More veterans are now surviving and returning from combat missions with more physical, mental, or emotional injuries than from any previous military conflict. Statistical reports indicate record levels of long-term emotional trauma (e.g., posttraumatic stress) and suicides from redeployed veterans. While traditional therapies can be helpful to veterans, many soldiers have turned to nontraditional support programs, such as the Outward Bound Program for Vets (OB4V), as a useful intervention in the healing process. This study found support for the effectiveness of the OB4V on 9 of the 11 personal constructs studied and on the variable of resilience for a selected group of redeployed military veterans. Supporting theories and research findings from recent studies are described within the context of specific attributes of AE programs that appear most effective in addressing these types of challenges. © Copyright 2014, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. 2014.

Language: en

Keywords

Adventure education; Military veterans; Natural environments; Outward Bound