This project is an evaluation of an outdoor experiential programme run by the Christchurch Justice Department's Community Corrections Service. Three methods are used to evaluate this intervention. The first is a theoretical assessment of how this and other programmes of its type fit with a number of effective intervention principles outlined by McLaren (1992) and Gendreau and Andrews (1992). Viewed in terms of rehabilitation components understood to be effective in crime reduction, the programme showed a number of qualities consistent with effective principles. It also revealed aspects not associated with crime reduction. These findings suggested that the programme is a moderately effective method of rehabilitation. Secondly, a retrospective experimental study was conducted following a similar method to that of Campbell et. als' (1982) previous evaluation of the same programme. In this study forty offenders who completed an outdoor experiential course during 1989 and 1990 were matched on related variables with forty non-participants on probation during the same period, the groups were then compared on a number of measures of reoffending. Results from this study were mixed. A gross measure of reoffending showed similar percentages in both groups returned to crime. Whilst frequency of reoffending revealed a trend in the expected direction, this difference was also non significant. It was found however that on average outdoor participants offended fewer times in relation to their previous crime rate and the control group did not significantly change. Contrary to this positive result, no significant differences were found when individual levels of improvement before and after the intervention were compared.

In a second experimental study twelve clients from four separate expeditions completed self-report questionnaires before and after the expedition along with a general program evaluation. As anticipated there were significant increases in feelings of well-being and global levels of self­ efficacy. A general course evaluation questionnaire revealed feelings of achievement and the experience of being amongst nature were considered the most important factors of personal gain. These findings suggest that the Christchurch Justice Department programme is successful in promoting intermediate changes but is marginally effective in reducing crime. Whilst it may be valuable in the context of other correctional aims and methods, this one week intervention on its own, is not sufficient to alter criminal behaviour.