Maturing Responsibility in Young Teens Participating in an Asthma Camp: Adaptive Mechanisms and Outcomes

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe adolescent adaptation in the four adaptive modes of the Roy Adaptation Model in campers attending a Young Teen Asthma Camp and relate that adaptation to the acquisition of asthma responsibility. DESIGN AND METHODS: The camp experience included asthma education and an opportunity to grow socially. A quasi-experimental design investigated ratings of self-efficacy and responsibility from before to after camp. RESULTS: Improvements in self-efficacy supported adaptation in self-concept and role function. Adolescents demonstrated maturing responsibility in asthma management in interdependence mode. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Asthma camps are effective for delivering asthma education, enhancing maturation, and assisting with normalizing life experiences. Nurses can be instrumental in facilitating adolescents' participation.