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Low-Elements Ropes Course as an Intervention Tool with Alcohol/Other Drug Dependent Adults: A Case Study

NCJ Number
196736
Journal
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly Volume: 20 Issue: 2 Dated: 2002 Pages: 83-90
Author(s)
Samuel S. Faulkner Ph.D.
Date Published
2002
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This case study assessed the ability of persons being treated for alcohol/other drug dependency to increase their problem solving activity following participation in a low-elements Ropes Course.
Abstract
A Ropes Course is a non-competitive outdoor experience designed to build positive social interactions, expand awareness, stretch personal limits, and build group cohesion. Participation in the low-elements of the course involves a series of trust building and problem solving activities. This report is the first attempt to examine the ability of a low-elements Ropes Course to increase problem solving skills in a population of drug dependent persons. The study indicates that a low-elements Ropes Course has the potential to increase problem solving ability. The study also observes that understanding the motivational factors involved in a participant's willingness to attend and to participate in group activities is an important consideration; problem solving skills are an essential element of the recovery process. Table, references