Effects of an Outdoor Adventure on Adolescents' Well-Being and Nature Connection-a Comparison With a Drama Workshop

Outdoor adventures are recognized as enhancing one's personal and interpersonal development and connection with nature. Recent studies have also identified the benefits for well-being. However, it remains unclear whether similar benefits could be achieved by organizing other, such as arts-based activities for young people. This mixed methods study examines how participation in a nature hike affects Finnish adolescents' (n = 16) perceived well-being and nature connection compared to participation in a drama camp (n = 17). Both groups highlighted the benefits to their social interaction and group cohesion. Based on the qualitative findings, being in a natural environment and participating in a challenging hike supported adolescents' opportunities to feel more calm and escape their everyday worries, to achieve the feeling of mastery, and to be themselves. The hike also supported adolescents' motivation to engage with nature. The results highlight the benefits of incorporating outdoor adventures as well as arts-based activities into adolescents' everyday lives.