Preliminary mixed-methods investigation: Impact and acceptability of a combined life skills and adventure therapy program for adolescents.
Aust Occup Ther J
; 71(4): 461-474, 2024 Aug.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38217458
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Meaningful occupational therapy interventions for neurodivergent, transition-age adolescents are understudied, and novel intervention approaches that are motivating to this population are needed. Accordingly, in this study we explored the acceptability and impact of a combined life skills/adventure therapy (LS/AT) intervention program for addressing self-identified goals for adolescents with regulation- and sensory-based challenges.METHODS:
We used a convergent mixed-methods design. All adolescents accepted into the intervention program were invited to participate. We described our sample using data from the Child Occupational Self-Assessment. Participants created and rated goals through a modified Canadian Occupational Performance Measure interview before intervention, after intervention and 3 months post-intervention and participated in semi-structured interviews pre- and post-intervention. We calculated COPM change scores, analysed qualitative interview data, and integrated findings into a joint display for interpretation following recommended procedures for mixed-methods data.RESULTS:
Ten adolescents consented to participate (n = 6 males, n = 4 females; mean age 13.92 years, SD = 0.54). Mean COPM performance change scores were 3.72 (SD = 1.39) from pre- to post-intervention and 2.40 (SD = 1.19) from pre- to 3 months post-intervention, with the largest change scores for goals related to life skills. Data from semi-structured interviews expanded on these findings, revealing that participants made changes related to being in the moment, finding a sense of purpose and achieving a sense of belonging. Participants reported high acceptability of the intervention.CONCLUSION:
This exploratory research supports the use of combined LS/AT intervention with transition-age adolescents experiencing sensory and regulation-based limitations on participation. Preliminary data shows positive changes in performance and satisfaction in self-identified goal areas as well as changes related to mindfulness, a personal sense of competence and relatedness. In practice, occupational therapists should consider integrating elements of this LS/AT intervention to support this population, including addressing life skills through engagement in unique and motivating activities.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Terapia Ocupacional
Tipo de estudio:
Prognostic_studies
/
Qualitative_research
Aspecto:
Implementation_research
Límite:
Adolescent
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Aust Occup Ther J
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Estados Unidos
Pais de publicación:
Australia