An organized camp and mental health: Moderating role of environmental sensitivity

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the interactive effects of environmental sensitivity and experiential content on mental health. A total of 393 students (fifth to seventh grade) participated in an organized camp program for two days and responded to a three-wave longitudinal survey (pre-and post-program, and one-month follow-up). Latent growth model-based analyses indicated that Experiences of Challenge/Mastery and Self-Disclosure significantly predicted better mental health, as assessed in the follow-up survey. However, for individuals with lower levels of sensitivity, the significant association was not found between Experience of Self-Disclosure and mental health. The current findings may provide insights into the planning and practice of organized camp programs. Specifically, it is important to consider participants' sensitivity levels and experience content.