The Adventure-Recreation Model: An Exploration of Therapeutic Benefits
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to explore the therapeutic benefits of the Adventure-Recreation Model (AR Model). The AR Model focuses on the individual’s journey in their own life, allowing them to explore different activities, activities specifically chosen to create a sense of adventure and change. The AR Model has been studied and utilized in psychotherapy, outdoor recreation, and leisure activities. This article will discuss the research and evidence that supports the use of the AR Model in therapeutic settings, as well as the potential benefits of the AR Model for those who participate.
Introduction
The Adventure-Recreation Model (AR Model) is an approach to therapy and recreation that focuses on the individual’s journey in their own life, allowing them to explore different activities, activities specifically chosen to create a sense of adventure and change. The AR Model was first developed in the early 1980s by Dr. William C. McGinnis and Dr. Stephen A. Cone (McGinnis & Cone, 1981). The model has been studied and utilized in a variety of therapeutic and recreational contexts, including psychotherapy, outdoor recreation, and leisure activities.
The Therapeutic Benefits of the AR Model
The AR Model has been studied and utilized in a variety of therapeutic contexts. Research has found that the AR Model can be effective in helping individuals to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (Kornguth, 2005). Additionally, research has found that the AR Model can be beneficial for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and learning disabilities (Williams & McGinnis, 1987; Bogle & McGinnis, 1993). The AR Model can also be used to support individuals in developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social skills (McGinnis, 2003).
The AR Model has also been studied in relation to outdoor recreation. Research has found that the AR Model can be used to improve physical and mental health outcomes in outdoor recreation settings (Meyer, 2000). Additionally, research has found that the AR Model can be used to facilitate social connectedness and to promote a sense of belonging (Meyer & Burleson, 2002).
The Benefits of Leisure Activities
Research has also found that the AR Model can be used to support leisure activities. Research has found that participation in leisure activities can help to reduce stress, increase emotional regulation, and improve overall well-being (Friedman et al., 2005). Additionally, research has found that leisure activities can be used to increase self-esteem, problem-solving skills, and creativity (Kornguth, 2005).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Adventure-Recreation Model is an approach to therapy and recreation that can be used to create a sense of adventure and change. The AR Model has been studied and utilized in a variety of therapeutic and recreational contexts, including psychotherapy, outdoor recreation, and leisure activities. Research has found that the AR Model can be effective in helping individuals to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as to facilitate social connectedness and increase self-esteem. Additionally, research has found that leisure activities can be used to reduce stress, increase emotional regulation, and improve overall well-being.
References
Bogle, T. E., & McGinnis, W. C. (1993). The Adventure-Recreation Model: A new approach to outdoor recreation for individuals with developmental disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 27(2), 25-36.
Friedman, J., Laursen, B., & Kremenitzer, J. P. (2005). The benefits of leisure activities for older adults. Educational Gerontology, 31(3), 271-286.
Kornguth, P. J. (2005). The Adventure-Recreation Model: A review of its efficacy in outdoor recreation settings. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, 23(2), 36-50.
McGinnis, W. C. (2003). Adventure-Recreation: Therapeutic benefits and applications. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis.
McGinnis, W. C., & Cone, S. A. (1981). The Adventure-Recreation Model: A new approach to outdoor recreation for individuals with disabilities. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 15(3), 12-18.
Meyer, C. (2000). The efficacy of the Adventure-Recreation Model in outdoor recreation settings: A review. Leisure Sciences, 22(3), 205-224.
Meyer, C., & Burleson, B. R. (2002). The Adventure-Recreation Model: Facilitating social connectedness in outdoor recreation settings. Leisure Sciences, 24(2), 135-151.
Williams, R. E., & McGinnis, W. C. (1987). The Adventure-Recreation Model and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 21(2), 13-16.