Abstract
Wilderness therapy, aimed primarily at adolescents
presenting with problem behaviors,
includes a range of interventions that incorporate
nature and the wilderness as prominent aspects
of treatment. In theory, wilderness therapists seek
to effect both behavioral and attitudinal changes.
Through providing a context of challenging outdoor
living and a group setting in an emotionally safe
place, wilderness therapy aims to address problem
behaviors and to facilitate an emerging sense of
healing, well-being, and personal and social responsibility.
Wilderness therapy’s action-oriented
approach is said to be particularly appropriate for
adolescents and is intended to build self-esteem, internal
locus of control, interpersonal skills, trust and
team building, and a sense of group belonging.