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Scoping Review of Outdoor and Land-Based Prevention Programs for Indigenous Youth in the United States and Canada

Author

Listed:
  • Faith M. Price

    (Department of Human Development, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
    Center for Indigenous Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA)

  • Tara D. Weaselhead-Running Crane

    (School of Speech, Language, Hearing & Occupational Sciences, College of Health, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
    Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA)

  • Elizabeth H. Weybright

    (Department of Human Development, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA)

Abstract

Interventions taking place on the land are culturally well aligned for Native peoples, as they are often developed by the community and incorporate traditional knowledge, values, and practices. However, research on the effectiveness and characteristics of such programs is lacking. This scoping review examined outdoor and land-based prevention interventions for Indigenous adolescents ages 10–25 in the United States and Canada to identify program characteristics such as origination, aims, activities, duration, evaluation methods, and outcomes. Over three-fourths (77%) of the 153 programs identified were community-derived. The programs were principally strength-based and promoted protective factors for general wellbeing. The most common delivery format was short camps. Nearly all programs (97%) included an element of culture. The activities most often seen were recreation (84%), subsistence living (65%), and Elder knowledge sharing (63%). Thirty-three studies measured outcomes and included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed method study designs. Studies found positive impacts on participants’ self-esteem and mental health; connections to culture, cultural pride, and identity; and connections to community including peers and Elders. The literature on outdoor and land-based prevention interventions for Indigenous youth is growing rapidly. Understanding program components is a first step to identifying the elements critical to effective programs for Indigenous youth.

Suggested Citation

  • Faith M. Price & Tara D. Weaselhead-Running Crane & Elizabeth H. Weybright, 2025. "Scoping Review of Outdoor and Land-Based Prevention Programs for Indigenous Youth in the United States and Canada," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(2), pages 1-21, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:2:p:183-:d:1579165
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Melissa E. Lewis & Jamie Smith & Sky Wildcat & Amber Anderson & Melissa L. Walls, 2022. "The Health Effects of a Cherokee Grounded Culture and Leadership Program," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(13), pages 1-15, June.
    2. Fatima Ahmed & Aleksandra M. Zuk & Leonard J. S. Tsuji, 2021. "The Impact of Land-Based Physical Activity Interventions on Self-Reported Health and Well-Being of Indigenous Adults: A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(13), pages 1-23, July.
    3. Mikraszewicz, Kathleen & Richmond, Chantelle, 2019. "Paddling the Biigtig: Mino biimadisiwin practiced through canoeing," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 240(C).
    4. Kelley, Allyson & Fatupaito, Bethany & Witzel, Morgan, 2018. "Is culturally based prevention effective? Results from a 3-year tribal substance use prevention program," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 71(C), pages 28-35.
    5. Gagnon, Ryan J. & Garst, Barry A. & Bowers, Edmond P. & Zinzow, Heidi M. & Thompson, Martie P., 2020. "Camp as context for need satisfaction among Native American youth: Examining links to participation quality and quantity," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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