A tale of two systems; Polarising beliefs in adventure therapy

Abstract

The fields of adventure therapy (AT) and complex trauma (CT) share similar belief systems however, internal divisions in each field seem insurmountable. Through a critical realist analysis, I present the clash between Neo-Liberal and humanist approaches and how they lead to a misunderstanding of the harmful effects of coercive treatment. Exploring ecological dynamics, sense of self, and the fundamental attribution error I discuss these complexities. A historical perspective reveals that AT already possesses solutions to bridge the gap between coercive practices and humanist CT informed AT. These solutions are outlined and a call to action encourages the international AT community to take a leadership role in mental health globally.