Summer camps for juveniles with rheumatic disease: do they make a difference?

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Psychosocial Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Summer camps are increasingly used in comprehensive treatment for pediatric rheumatic diseases.
• The therapeutic value of these camps on psychosocial functioning remains largely undetermined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a summer camp experience on self-concept and locus of control in juveniles with rheumatic disease.
• To assess the maintenance of these psychosocial benefits over a 6-month follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 36 campers with rheumatic disease participated in a week-long summer camp.
• Psychosocial functioning was measured using self-concept and locus of control assessments before and after the camp.
• Follow-up assessments were conducted at 6 months post-camp.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in mean scores for self-concept and locus of control were observed post-camp.
• These positive psychosocial changes were maintained at the 6-month follow-up.
• Campers with prior camp experience showed maximal benefit; male campers required special attention.

Conclusions:

• Summer camping experiences can positively impact psychosocial functioning in juveniles with rheumatic disease.
• The benefits are sustained long-term, suggesting camps are a valuable therapeutic adjunct.
• Targeted interventions may be needed for specific subgroups, such as male campers.