Recreation and trauma: An exploratory study of how specialized recreation organizations address the needs of their unique clientele

Abstract

This study investigates how recreation organizations impact people who have experienced traumatic events by understanding how these organizations create curriculum and determine success. This exploratory research used Interpretative Description design to create results with practical implications. Using a snowball sampling, participants engaged in semi structure interviews to understand the process by which organizations were created, how organizations meet the needs of their constituents with emotional and physical trauma and how each program defines and measures success. Results connect with theories of coping and provide building blocks for future research.