June 2005

Utilizing the Research
Zimbabwe groups discuss and apply the findings

The findings from this study have been discussed at local dissemination meetings and have led to a review of program approaches and incorporation of new strategies. For example, the Kids’ Clubs have increased the participation of community leaders and volunteers in their program activities. This was done so that community members would better understand the importance of play and other activities in helping children socially and psychologically, and to enlist them in helping to provide ongoing care and support to children in their community.

Concerned about the levels of psychosocial distress and grief among the campers, particularly among females, Salvation Army Masiye Camp has adapted its activities to better engage children in a narrative, reflective process that focuses not only on difficulties in the past but on plans for the future. As part of this process, the children now create and discuss a Tree of Life (see below) that illustrates their personal strengths, joys, and tribulations. This activity has been added by Masiye Camp to better prepare youth for a more intense follow-up session on loss and bereavement.

Tree of Life

This activity helps participants understand themselves better on a psychosocial level.

Instructions
Each participant is given a piece of paper and colored markers. In a specific given time, they each draw a tree that will represent who they are. The following tree parts represent the different aspects of each person’s life:

The soil: Place of origin

The roots: Ancestry, and cultural, ethnic, or tribal background

The trunk: The people, places, and events that influenced one’s life when growing up

Main branches: The people, places, and events that influence one’s life today

Fruits: Definition of what makes one’s life today; also defines one’s psychological principles

Bugs: Personal characteristics, places, and/or events that contribute to downfalls in one’s life today; i.e. problems and challenges that one faces today

Leaves on the ground: Losses or traumas one has experienced or suffered in life

It is recommended that each participant share their completed Tree of Life with the rest of the group. Comments and questions can be asked for encouragement and clarification.

Courtesy of Salvation Army Masiye Camp counselors

See Also

• Frontiers in Reproductive Health – Youth

• Population Council – Gender, Family and Development Program

• Population Council – Infants and Children

• Population Council – Journals and Newsletters

• Population Council – Orphans and Vulnerable Children

• Population Council – Youth

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This page updated 29 August 2005

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