The impact of therapeutic recreation camps on adults with disabilities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2017.0130Keywords:
recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, adults with disabilities, camp, perceived benefits, constant comparative method, positive affect, confidence, positive socializationAbstract
Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the perceived benefits that adults with disabilities experience from participating in a therapeutic recreation camp.
Methods: Participants selected were between the ages of 22 and 65, had attended the camp one or more times, and had no difficulties communicating. Participant interviews were conducted during the camp and recorded. After interview completion, data were transcribed verbatim and QDA Miner software was used to organize and code the data for themes. Researchers used the constant comparative method of data analysis to form a collaborative code book.
Results: Main themes that emerged were: positive affect, confidence, and positive socialization. Participants shared benefits of: feelings of belonging, being accepted without judgment, and establishing an emotional connection with others outside of one's family.
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