Author:
Puyan SEPAHI
Adventure therapy is increasingly emerging in German-speaking countries as an alternative to established pedagogical approaches such as experiential education and individual pedagogy, as well as to conventional forms of therapy. In contrast to internationally recognized forms of Adventure Therapy—which in countries such as the USA, Canada, and Australia are supported by scientific evidence, research studies, and academic training programs—adventure therapy in the German context is not yet formally recognized or reimbursed by health insurance.
This study examines how outdoor-based adventure therapy programs are adapted to the needs of so-called “behaviorally original” adolescents. As many existing programs target this group, eight experts from the fields of adventure therapy, experiential education, individual pedagogy, and psychotherapy were interviewed. Using Kuckartz’s method of qualitative content analysis, the findings highlight the importance of provider qualifications and competencies, adherence to quality standards, consideration of psychosocial risks, and flexibility in implementation. Results demonstrate that differentiated program adaptation is essential to ensure the effectiveness of adventure therapy interventions for this target group.
