Backpacking builds character, confidence and problem solving skills, study finds

One might argue that all life experiences build character and problem solving skills, but being backed by a scientific study makes a theory stronger. I hope that going to prison lowers confidence though.

I would think being in a gang would weaken those skills since they tend to value loyalty to the gang and discourage too much individuality. And using violence as a problem solving skill isn't really embraced in today's society.

Suffering does in fact build character. One of my first backpacking trips in the Scouts was an absolutely miserable experience, but is now one of my fondest Scouting memories.