Evaluating the Effectiveness and Implementation of Community-Based Adventure Therapy Programmes for Young People in Ireland: A Hybrid Type 1 Effectiveness–Implementation Study Embedded within Active Connections

About the Project

This funded PhD project will evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of community-based adventure therapy programmes for young people in Ireland, delivered through Active Connections CLG. The project will focus on understanding how adventure therapy programmes influence young people’s wellbeing, emotional regulation, resilience, relationships, and engagement with services, while also examining implementation processes, practitioner development, and programme sustainability.

The research will adopt a Hybrid Type 1 effectiveness–implementation design informed by implementation science frameworks including RE-AIM and CFIR. A mixed-methods approach will be used, involving qualitative case studies with young people, interviews with practitioners and stakeholders, and surveys/interviews with parents and carers. Creative and participatory methods such as photo elicitation and digital storytelling will also be incorporated.