The Effects of an Outdoor Adventure Camp Experience on Self-Concept

Abstract

Four sessions of coed outdoor adventure camp were evaluated to determine the effects on self-concept of the teenage participants. A primary goal of the camp was to instill in the campers a sense of accomplishment and cooperation by providing a safe environment in which campers can experience new adventures and challenges while sharing responsibilities with other youth. The Tennessee Self-concept Scale was administered at the beginning of each camp session and again at the end of the 6th day of each session. The hypothesis of this study stated that there would be a statistically significant difference between pre- and posttest self-concept scores, indicating a positive change in the self-concept of the camper as a result of the outdoor adventure experience. Nine areas of self-concept were evaluated. Although results were inconsistent across all four sessions, the differences could be attributed to differences in organization of each camp session. The findings of this study may be used by camp directors to organize their camp programs to produce a positive effect on camper self-concept.