Project
Camp Evaluation
Principal Investigator(s): Dr. Blythe Shephard, phone: 250-721-7772, email: blythes@uvic.ca; Dr. Jonathan Down, email: jonathan.down@viha.ca
Start/End Date: April 2005 – January 2006
Location: Cowichan Lake, BC
Brief Description: This project evaluates the efficacy of experiential training of caregivers involved in a summer camp program. The research focuses on four main program objectives: (1) increasing caregiver self confidence in coping with their child; (2) decreasing ineffective ways of responding to their child; (3) enhancing their competence in adapting the environment to meet their child’s needs; and (4) improving the effectiveness of working with their professional team in their community. Two research questions are posed: (1) How, and in what way, does attendance at White Crow Camp influence the coping behaviour and resiliency of caregivers of children with FASD in their daily lives; and (2) what have caregivers learned about achieving an organized effective environment without relying on controlling techniques? The multi-method approach involves the use of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods and analysis using a pre-amp (T1), post camp (T2), follow-up (at three months) (T3) design. Data collection with parents/caregivers of children with FASD includes the use of two standardized instruments (Parenting Stress Index and Social Skills Rating System), in-depth interviews, journal writing and follow-up telephone interviews.
Time Frame: completed
Kind of Project: research
Population Served: urban, suburban, rural, and remote families
Publications: Executive summary of Whitecrow Village Camp: A Mixed Method Study of Its Effects on Caregivers of Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is available upon request.
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