The Impact of Therapeutic Recreation Practices on the Quality of Life, Mental Well-Being and Self-Esteem of Young Adults
Abstract
Therapeutic recreation refers to participation in individual or group-specific recreational activities to ensure the sustainability of the functions of individuals and the improvement of the functionality of these functions. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of therapeutic recreation practices on the quality of life, mental well-being and self-esteem of young adults, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of recreational activities in coping with stress. In this in-depth analysis, a sequential explanatory mixed methods design was employed. The implementation
of Quality of Life, Mental Well-Being and Self-Esteem scales, needs assessment, interview forms, and unique recreational interventions occurred through a quasi-experimental process. The interventions were designed around a number of different themes, including music and poetry therapy, drama, creative writing, painting, nature, play, social skills, mindfulness, insight and empathy. The results demonstrate that therapeutic recreation interventions enhance quality of life, mental well-being and self-esteem; mitigate stress, engender happiness, foster a positive outlook, enhance awareness and are efficacious in developing insight and motivation. The results of the study indicate that planned therapeutic recreation activities can play a significant role
in the development of public health services based on mental well-being, social development of the community, increased happiness and a better quality of life for women by reducing the gender gap. Furthermore, when analysed holistically, this original study combining health and entertainment provides a wealth of data, including the relationships between dependent variables, and various ideas for further research.
Keywords
Therapeutic Recreation Leisure and Social Activity Mental Health Quality of Life Well-being
References
- Öztürk Karataş, E. & Karataş, Ö. (2022, April). Yaşlılarda Terapötik Rekreasyon. 2nd International Congress on Multidisciplinary Approach to Sports and Social Sciences. (pp. 103-108). İstanbul - Zoom Online. https://l24.im/eWIvZ.
- Patton, M. Q. (2002). Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods (3nd ed.). London: Sage Pub.
- Picton, C., Fernandez, R., Moxham, L., & Patterson, C. F. (2020). Experiences of Outdoor Nature-Based Therapeutic Recreation Programs for Persons with A Mental İllness: A Qualitative Systematic Review. JBI Evidence Synthesis, 18(9), 1820-1869. doi.org/10.11124/JBISRIR-D-19-00263.
Details
| Primary Language | English |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Tourism (Other) |
| Journal Section | 2025 5/1 (April) |
| Authors | |
| Publication Date | April 22, 2025 |
| Submission Date | December 12, 2024 |
| Acceptance Date | January 15, 2025 |
| Published in Issue | Year 2025 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 |
