Impact Of Inclusive Service-Learning Partnership On Mental Health Among Therapeutic Recreation College Students

This study investigated the mental health implications of a service-learning partnership between therapeutic recreation (TR) college students and children/youth in a recreation inclusion program. Twenty-five TR students participated in 6-week inclusion program with a child/youth partner with or without a disability. Resiliency results exhibited a directional increase (d<=.10) with three subscales significant in change for student's ability to deal with: whatever comes my way (p<.029), seeing the humorous side of things (p<.035), and coping with stress (p<.029). Further analysis found significance that males (p=.045) and racial/ethnic minority participants (p=.021.) had reduced their stress scores. Enjoyment scores significantly increased (p<.001). Analysis of reflection notes revealed two main themes: (1) emotional contagion, and (2) reducing stress and anxiety. These themes relate to key aspects of resilience, which demonstrates the value of service-learning for TR college students and the therapeutic potential for mental health support. Practice and research implications of service learning for TR are presented.