Effects of the PCYC Catalyst outdoor adventure intervention program on youths' life skills, mental health, and delinquent behaviour

Abstract

This study used mixed methods to examine the effects of an Australian outdoor adventure intervention on youth-at-risks' life effectiveness, mental health, and behavioural functioning. The sample consisted of 53 adolescents who completed a Catalyst program conducted by the Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association, a non-profit organisation, in Queensland, Australia. The program involved 15 programming days over a 10–12-week period. There were small to moderate short- and longer-term improvements in life effectiveness, psychological well-being, and several aspects of behavioural conduct. There were no positive longer-term impacts on psychological distress and some aspects of behaviour. Thematic analysis of 14 participant interviews identified six major themes: overcoming challenging backgrounds, contending with adversity, personal development, social development, motivation to work for change, and a more optimistic outlook on the future. Further research utilising a comparison group, multiple sources of data, and a larger sample could help to qualify results and increase generalisability.

Keywords

• adolescents
• intervention
• adventure therapy
• outdoor adventure interventions
• mixed methods
• program evaluation