The Fundamental Characteristics and Unique Outcomes of Christian Summer Camp Experiences

Abstract

Very little research is available on the unique characteristics and outcomes of Christian summer camps, in spite of their prevalence in the industry. The Effective Camp Research Project is a mixed-methods study seeking to close the research gap. This article presents the major findings of the study, detailing the emergence of a distinct Christian camp model with 5 fundamental characteristics: relational, safe space, participatory, unplugged from home, and faith-centered. A multi-test survey of campers provides compelling evidence for outcomes that are immediate, subsequent, and lasting. Some of these outcomes are common to all camp types, though many are unique to the contextual realities of Christian camps that effectively partner with the ministries of churches and homes. Camper outcomes identified in other studies are interpreted theologically in the context of Christian camps, providing particular relevance to faith communities and people of faith.

Camp Research: What? So What? What’s Next?

“…Yet, as more is learned about camp experiences, different groups clearly have distinctive experiences and some additional specific outcomes. For example, camps with a faith-based focus may have many of the same outcomes as other camps, as Sorenson (2018) found.…”

“…Researchers have moved beyond descriptive survey designs, although these approaches remain useful. The papers here demonstrate examples of literature reviews (e.g., Sendak et al, 2018;Olsen et al, 2018), mixed methods (e.g., Sorenson, 2018;Whittington & Garst, 2018), qualitative analyses (Baker, 2018;Martin, 2018), archival data (e.g., Bird & Subramaniam, 2018), and rigorous instrument development (e.g., Bennett, 2018;Gillard, 2018;Lewis et al, 2018). Although Perry (2018) used primarily a qualitative approach, he also introduced his personal experience in teaching and experiencing race evasiveness in camps, almost akin to an autoethnographic approach.…”

Using participatory culture‐specific consultation to support the mental health needs of summer camp staff

“…Currently, research on camp staff experiences suggests staff must juggle multiple demands, both invigorating and draining. In addition to creating a caring and supportive context in which camp and personal values can be transmitted (Rubin et al, 2018; Sorenson, 2018) and camper development can be promoted (Henderson et al, 2007; Wallace, 2008; Wilson et al, 2019), camp staff are also responsible for handling demanding camp schedules, managing camper behavioral issues, completing paperwork, and participating in fundraising, all with a relative lack of privacy or time off during the summer months (Dubin et al, 2020; Hall et al, 2020). What is more, while caring for campers who are living at camp, counselors themselves are also living away from their own homes and support systems.…”