Pathways to reintegration and camaraderie: Humboldt State University veterans hiking group

Graduation Date

2016

Document Type

Project

Program

Other

Program

Project (M.S.W.)--Humboldt State University, Social Work, 2016

Committee Chair Name

Jennifer Maguire

Committee Chair Affiliation

HSU Faculty or Staff

Keywords

Hiking groups, Hiking, Veterans, Veterans' reintegration, Humboldt State University -- Projects -- Social Work, Veterans' hiking group, Veterans' camaraderie

Abstract

Veterans reintegrating back into civilian life after leaving military service must often navigate barriers to doing so successfully. This may be truer for combat veterans and veterans who experience mental health conditions. Reintegration is essential to veterans so they have a chance to successfully shift from a military to civilian life style. Shifting from military to civilian life is an experience that can be truly shocking. A veteran is coming out of a way of life where most situations are black and white, and what they need to do on a day to day basis is outlined by what a strict timeline. More importantly veterans are coming out of an environment that thrives on camaraderie. When options that suit veterans' needs for making a successful transition back into civilian life are limited, one coping mechanism that may be used is isolation. Withdrawal from people may complicate mental and physical health risks. The purpose of this project is to create another avenue for veterans to increase social interactions and networks by participating in a hiking group. The hiking group will provide an opportunity for veterans to come together in a natural therapeutic environment rather than an institutional setting, which can facilitate the formation of lasting social bonds. The hiking group may also serve as a reintegration forum because veterans may form relationships that translate beyond the group.

https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/xp68kj45m

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