Residential wilderness programs: the role of social support in influencing self-evaluations of male adolescents.

This qualitative study explores the aspects of a residential wilderness experience that informed self-evaluations in male adolescents, ages 12-16. To assess change in self-evaluations and program factors associated with change, qualitative interviews were conducted with adolescents upon entry to the program and four months later. Participants' responses suggested that self-evaluation improved in relation to specific factors in the residential wilderness program. Specifically, increased levels of social support provided through cooperative experiences and opportunities for emotional expression helped participants develop a more positive sense of self. Findings contribute to our knowledge of specific program components offered by residential wilderness programs that are associated with positive adjustment in adolescents.