Project Number: WVA00398
CRIS Number: 0178026
EFFECTS OF THE 4-H CHARTING PROGRAM ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH
Investigators: Markstrom, C. A.
Performing Department: Family and Consumer Sciences -- 3151
Start Date: 05/15/1998
Termination Date: 05/15/2002
Reporting period: 01/01/2001 to 12/31/2001
Progress Report:
This study involved data collection from over 500 high school students and 4-H youth in West Virginia. In addition to examining the impact of 4-H involvement, youth involvement also was assessed according to extracurricular activities, volunteerism, and faith-based organizations. Of primary interest was youth involvement in structured, adult-sponsored out-of-school activities. The findings indicate that involvement in such activities is beneficial to adolescent psychosocial development. Further, the nature of the positive benefits vary according to the type of activity. This study serves as a useful link to a Multistate Experiment Station Project the PI has joined that will examine the role of structured out-of-school experiences on adolescent development.
Publications: (No publications.)
Impact:
Findings from this study have been presented at various professional meetings, both nationally and regionally. Further, two manuscripts have been developed from the study and are in progress toward publication. Other publications will follow. There is high interest in this topic. The findings offer encouraging support to the positive impacts of adolescent involvement in 4-H, extracurricular activities, volunteerism, and faith-based organizations. The results support similar research studies being reported from various parts of the country. The implications suggest that funding efforts continue to be directed toward activities that support and encourage the optimal development of youth.