Life Sciences Commons^™

Measuring Relationships Between Camp Staff And Camper Developmental Outcomes: An Application Of Self-Determination Theory, Mark F. Roark, Gary D. Elis, Mary Sara Wells, Ann Gillard

Kinesiology and Health Science Faculty Publications

While recent studies have suggested that positive developmental outcomes may result from participating in camp experiences, it is unclear what specific aspects of camp (e.g., staff dispositions, counselor teams, non-counselor staff) might influence these camper outcomes. Previous studies have measured the autonomy support of schoolteachers and found that more autonomy-supportive dispositions that, for example, engage autonomy, relatedness, and competence through the use of meaningful choice or rationale have positive effects on student developmental outcomes (e.g., intrinsic motivation, competence, self-esteem). Unlike schools, camps are noncompulsory recreation environments and most are outdoor-based. The existence of differences between the physical, social, and motivational …