NCJ Number
151677
Journal
Criminology Australia Volume: 5 Issue: 2 Dated: (October/November 1993) Pages: 19-24
Date Published
1993
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Project Hahn is one example of a wilderness experience that attempts to address the needs of Australian young people and offer them an opportunity to develop personally.
Abstract
Substantial evidence is lacking on what behavioral and attitudinal changes are most likely to occur after youths complete wilderness programs. The focus historically taken by many correctional programs for young offenders has emphasized the offender to the exclusion of such positive community influences as nonoffending peers and other community resources. The wilderness program known as Project Hahn aims to facilitate learning and development rather than to reduce offending behavior, and its focus is preventive rather than rehabilitative. The project's general goal is to enhance and strengthen the psychological development of individuals as they undertake various challenging physical skills. An evaluation of youth who participated in wilderness-based camping indicated that 41 percent of participants had a clearer picture of themselves after Project Hahn. Many youths demonstrated a positive employment orientation after successful project completion, as well as improved relationships with their probation officers. The Project Hahn model instilled positive self-efficacy within an environment of positive group dynamics. The project increased stamina and endurance in participants' later approach to seeking employment and also improved coping responses to other facets of each individual's personal environment. 18 references and 4 photographs