1. Positive Masculinity in the Outdoors: Applying a Systems Lens to Evaluate an Adolescent Outdoor Education Program
- Author
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Su, Rung-Xuan, McLean, Scott, Dallat, Clare, and Lane, Ben R.
- Abstract
Outdoor education programs have been shown to enhance the development of positive psychology and wellbeing in students. However, there is a lack of research investigating the specific components within outdoor education programs that may enhance positive psychology and, in particular, positive masculinity. The aim of the current study was to investigate a specific outdoor education program targeted for adolescent males with the purpose of developing positive masculinity. A systems analysis framework, Work Domain Analysis, was used to model the program components and interactions between them, to evaluate how they influence the development of positive masculinity. The Work Domain Analysis model was developed from data obtained from four previous participants of the program, and eight subject matter experts (SMEs) who participated in online questionnaires, and face to face online or telephone interviews. The Work Domain Analysis was subsequently refined during an SME workshop, and validated by SMEs post-workshop. The Work Domain Analysis identified multiple components of the program, that were intended to enhance the development of positive masculinity. These include the structured and unstructured activities, the debrief and guided reflections, and Elders night. Recommendations of how the program could be enhanced to focus on mental health challenges in young men from rural community are discussed. Future research could investigate the specific functions of the program and their effects on desired outcome measures in outdoor education programs.
- Published
- 2021
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