The benefits of a camp designed for children with epilepsy: evaluating adaptive behaviors over 3 years

Epilepsy Behav. 2007 Feb;10(1):170-8. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2006.10.007. Epub 2006 Dec 4.

Abstract

Objective: Children with epilepsy attending a condition-specific overnight camp were evaluated for behavioral changes over 3 consecutive years, using a modification of the Vineland Adaptive Behavioral Scale.

Methods: Trained counselors completed pre- and postcamp assessments for each camper. Repeated-measures MANOVA was used to analyze effects of the camp experience for each year, with respect to gender and age. Repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to evaluate long-term effects from year-to-year comparisons for return campers, following three successive camp experiences.

Results: A significant change in social interaction was observed over 3 years. Despite some decline at the start of camp in consecutive years, the overall trend for return campers suggests a positive cumulative impact of continued camp participation, with improvements in the domains of social interaction, responsibility, and communication.

Conclusion: A condition-specific camp designed for children with epilepsy can improve adaptive behaviors and social interactions. Overall net gains appear to increase over time, suggesting additional benefits for return campers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Child
  • Communication
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Epilepsy / psychology*
  • Epilepsy / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Patient Education as Topic*
  • Recreation*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Social Behavior
  • Time Factors