The Attributes of Effective Field Staff in Wilderness Programs: Changing Youths’ Perspectives of Being “Cool”

摘要: This qualitative study examines the perceived influence of field staff on youth participating in a wilderness therapy program. The program, called Camp WILD, was designed for disadvantaged who were at risk academic and social failure. Thirty-five had completed 2-week program asked to take part study. Structured interviews focusing benefits participation conducted with each participant. Interview content examined counselor-based factors that made experience beneficial participants. Constant comparison analysis results revealed eight key counselor attributes: (a) ambitious, (b) service oriented, (c) hard working, (d) possessed identified goals, (e) interest others, (f) unselfish their time, (g) fun loving, (h) sense freedom accomplish whatever they wanted do. Findings suggest important implications therapeutic recreation practitioners all settings. These are discussed.