Youth Development Research Project

The goal of this study is to develop a better understanding of how to support adolescents’ social and emotional learning in Outward Bound, a high-quality youth outdoor adventure education program. During the current phase of the study, we aim to describe and understand how program instructors support learning during the stressful challenges youth participants face on their Outward Bound courses. Findings from the project can contribute to our understanding of positive youth development and be used to improve youth program staff practices.

We have conducted group interviews with 32 youth participants (ages 14-18; 50% female, 59% White) and individual interviews with 51 adult instructors.

Support for the Youth Character Development In Outward Bound Study is provided by The Character Lab.