An evaluation of wilderness survival programs as an alternative to juvenile incarceration
Date
1988
Authors
Shannon, Zane Kirby
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Abstract
This study involved an evaluation of wilderness survival programs as an alternative to incarceration for young offenders. In particular, it sought to determine if such programs were more effective than a juvenile detention center in reducing the post-release recidivism of adjudicated young male offenders. Based on previous research it was argued that wilderness survival programs adapted from Outward Bound alter participants' attitudes and behaviors towards others and themselves, which in turn impedes further delinquent behavior. A quasi-experimental design with 35 male program participants and 35 incarcerated males in the experimental and control groups respectively was used. The groups were matched according to age, time of sentence, prior offenses and previous detainment(s). After their completion of the program or release from detention recidivism data were collected at 6, 12, and 18 months intervals. It was observed that the wilderness survival group had fewer recidivists and offenses committed at each interval, though the extent of these differences declined over time. Although the differences failed to reach statistical significance the favorable results were obtained at a much lower cost than incarceration at the juvenile detention center. The implications of these results are discussed and recommendations suggested.