This article examines the talk from 12 chronic young offenders (aged 13 to 16 years) about their experience of wilderness-based rehabilitation. The author participated in the month-long programme and interviewed participants at the conclusion of the programme and at eighteen month follow-up. The participants had experienced sexual and/or physical abuse and neglect, were recreational substance users (marijuana, alcohol and/or solvents) and had become unmanageable in institutional settings (usually due to violence). Looking back on their experience, participants described experiences of whānau (extended family), helping, talking, listening, trusting, respecting and disciplined working. Discussion examines the transition between programme and home and integrates participant experience within the adventure therapy literature. Source: Author's abstract

Social Policy Journal of New Zealand, July 2000, 14: 164-179