In my master’s thesis, I investigated the significance of nature camps as an approach to working with adolescents experiencing complex challenges. In the theoretical part, I presented the characteristics of adolescence and the complex needs faced by adolescents, and highlighted the limitations of existing institutional forms of support. I paid particular attention to the community-based approach, experiential/adventure education, and nature camps as an approach that facilitates relationship-building, participation, taking on responsibility, and learning through direct experience. I also presented the role of professionals in such an environment and the importance of the community in supporting adolescents. The empirical part was dedicated to investigating how an outdoor camp, as a community-based approach, contributes to supporting adolescents with complex needs and what significance the role of the professional team holds in this context. The research was based on a qualitative research approach. I collected data through participant observation at the summer camp and through five semi-structured interviews with camp participants, including both adolescents and members of the professional team. I analyzed the collected data using qualitative thematic analysis.
The results of the study show that participants experience institutional care as fragmented, bureaucratic, and insufficiently responsive to their individual needs. They highlight the instability of relationships, a lack of participation, and the feeling that rules often take precedence over relationships as significant shortcomings. In contrast, camp in nature provides a space where, through community, mutual support, shared creation of daily life, contact with nature, and experiential learning, feelings of belonging, acceptance, safety, and responsibility are fostered. Participants develop social skills, greater self-confidence, independence, and trust in themselves and others. The study also shows that the professional staff at camp plays a different role than in institutional settings. They transition from the role of supervisor to that of a companion who co-creates a community with the young people, builds relationships, and provides a space for active participation. This approach significantly contributes to their personal and professional growth.
The study’s findings indicate that camps in nature represent an important complement to existing forms of support for adolescents with complex needs. Its greatest value lies in the development of relationships, community, and experiences that enable young people to develop a sense of belonging, empowerment, and active contribution. The research also opens up broader reflection on the application of the principles of the community-based approach and relational work within the institutional care of young people.
|
