Promoting Personal Growth in Young People Experiencing Homelessness Through an Outdoors-Based Program

Outdoors-based youth development programs demonstrate the efficacy to improve indicators of personal growth and mental health in a range disadvantaged young people. However, most marginalized people society, who stand benefit from such initiatives, remain underrepresented research. My Strengths Training for Life (MST4Life) is positive (PYD) intervention experiencing homelessness that incorporates life skills program an outdoor adventure education (OAE) course. The current study presents qualitative investigation OAE course understand its role promoting changes participants. Reflexive thematic analysis led inductively driven themes which were conceptualized based on relevant theories (e.g., relational developmental systems) models 5 Cs PYD). Findings highlight benefits preceding psychologically prepare participants thrive unfamiliar setting outdoors related challenges. During course, adaptive regulations supported participants’ basic psychological needs fostered growth. Improvements social competence was common theme across played pivotal facilitating balanced Cs. In addition, experiences during promoted intentions make lifestyle changes. Implications these findings are discussed relation making outdoors-based courses more accessible people, as well how PYD can add value homeless sector.