Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Bibliographic Record
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Keywords
Occupational Therapy, OT
Abstract
Skate to Relate is a therapeutic skateboarding program for at-risk youth developed and led by an occupational therapist. The program uses skateboarding, art, mentorship, and other health-promoting activities that act as protective factors for young people who face adversity. Grounded in positive youth development principles, Skate to Relate creates a safe and inclusive space where young people can build confidence, express themselves, develop meaningful relationships, and feel a sense of belonging when they are both on and off their skateboards. A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted to understand the subjective experiences of the program on its participants and what effects it has had on their lives.
Recommended Citation
Giammarino, Jocelyn MOT, OTR/L, LMT, "Skate to Relate: A Qualitative Study of a Therapeutic Skateboarding Program for At-Risk Youth" (2026). All Student Scholarship. 473.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/etd/473

