Lead researcher : Eve Pouliot

Co-researchers : Annie Dumont, Julie Fortin and Christiane Bergeron-Leclerc

Abstract. This project aims to better understand the needs of adolescents and families in the municipality of Pontiac who have been exposed to the recurrent flooding of recent years, in a context where these events compound the effects of the pandemic and of climate change. Research shows that natural disasters can have significant and lasting consequences for young people’s mental health, well-being and educational, family and social trajectories, while also underscoring the importance of family and school support as protective factors. From this perspective, the project explores the potential of family nature and adventure intervention as an innovative approach to fostering resilience, well-being and a sense of agency among young people and their parents. More specifically, it seeks to survey existing programs, explore the needs and expectations of families affected by flooding, and identify the foundations of an intervention program adapted to their realities. This pilot project constitutes a preliminary step toward a larger-scale project that will make it possible to assess the outcomes of such an intervention with families exposed to natural disasters.