title: Outcomes and processes at a camp for youth with HIV/AIDS.
abstract: The impact of HIV/AIDS on the lives of youth with this chronic illness suggests the need for additional support as youth develop. Summer camp can serve as a therapeutic intervention for youth with HIV/AIDS. Using a case study employing observations, focus groups, and interviews, we examined outcomes associated with participation in a camp for youth with HIV/AIDS, and program processes that influenced outcomes. Findings showed that camp played a major developmental role for youth. Three outcomes of camp emerged: (a) forming caring connections (awareness of commonalities, lack of isolation); (b) feeling reprieve and recreation (fun activities, anticipation of and reflection on camp, sense of freedom); and (c) increasing knowledge, attitudes, and skills (conflict management, disclosure, skill learning and education, medication adherence). Processes included formal and informal education, staff-camper interactions, long-term relationships, outside-of-camp support, activities, planning for camper needs, accessibility, and freedom from worry. We discuss implications for youth programs.
authors.affiliation: Springfield College, Springfield, MA 01109-3797, USA. anngillard@gmail.com
authors.forename: Ann
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gillard
authors.forename: Peter A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Witt
authors.forename: Clifton E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Watts
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000367:Age Factors; D002165:Camping / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D002657:Child Development; D002669:Child Welfare; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010372:Pediatrics; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012944:Social Support; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult