Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026

Four Temporary Waterslide Designs Adapted to Different Slope Conditions to Encourage Child Socialization in Playgrounds
Published on: December 9, 2022
Increasing resilience in adolescents: the importance of social connectedness in adventure education programmes
Damian Scarf1, Jillian G Hayhurst1, Benjamin C Riordan1
1Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Objective:
Mental health problems are a leading cause of health-related disability during adolescence. The objectives of the current study were to investigate whether participating in an adventure education programme (AEP) increased adolescents' resilience and elucidate how social connectedness contributes to any increase.
Method:
Adolescents who participated in the AEP had their resilience measured on the first (Time 1) and last day (Time 2) of a 10-day voyage. Perceived social support and sense of belonging were also measured at Time 2. A control group of adolescents, who did not take part in the voyage, also had their resilience assessed at two time points, 10 days apart.
Result:
Adolescents who participated in the AEP, but not those in the control group, displayed an increase in resilience from Time 1 to Time 2. Further, the increase in resilience was related to the adolescents' sense of belonging, and this effect held when controlling for perceived social support.
Conclusion:
These findings demonstrate the positive impact AEPs have on adolescents' resilience and a mechanism through which this occurs.
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Cognitive Development During Adolescence
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.

