[The Group as Care: Group Dynamics and Functions in Adventure Therapy for Young Adults with Psychosis].

Ojectives The repercussions of a first episode psychosis (FEP) can be very trying for people suffering from it and those around them. The recovery process remains laborious and some people have difficulty engaging in it. Understanding better the effects of group intervention on people suffering from so-called negative symptoms or on those more resistant to usual treatments appears necessary. Adventure therapy stands out among group interventions for its outdoor activities, in a natural setting, aimed at behavioral changes. This study aims to better understand emerging group phenomena, as well as the functions of a group of young psychotic adults who participated in an adventure therapy program. The program included four weeks of preparatory meetings, followed by a four-day expedition in nature and a postexpedition debriefing session. Method This qualitative study is based on participant observation conducted throughout the program, as well as semi-structured interviews with 8 participants who experienced a FEP, carried out up to 6 months after the expedition. The research material was analysed using a thematic analysis, followed by an interpretative phenomenological analysis, in order to deepen the understanding of participants' lived experience. Results The analyses highlighted 8 key themes, 4 focused on group phenomena that emerged during the expedition (mutual support and initiative in interpersonal context, motivational effect, destigmatizing effect, solidarity) and 4 on the functions of group dynamics (containment, regulation, mediation, contemplation). Discussion Adventure therapy appears to promote setting in motion and the recovery of self-confidence among participants in addition to helping them overcome significant relational difficulties related to their mental health diagnosis. The structure of the program, the continuous presence of mental health professionals, as well as the presence of peers with a similar life path, seem reassuring and to allow for breaking isolation, socializing, developing emotional regulation skills, initiating reflections on lifestyle habits and, for some, changing these habits following the expedition. Conclusion This study highlights the therapeutic potential of adventure therapy, which can be beneficial and complementary to usual treatment in a global approach to the treatment of a FEP.
Mental Health
Policy

Authors

Séguin-Green Séguin-Green, Dubé Dubé, Ouellet-Plamondon Ouellet-Plamondon
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