Making a Difference: Study of a Rural Positive Youth Development Program for Adolescent Young Women

• In Event: 14.045 - Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: 14.045-24 - Youth Media, Youth Research: Empowering Queer, Trans, and Nonbinary Youth, Young Women of Color, and Young Rural Women

Abstract

This study examines how the experiences of young women, aged 11 to 18 years, in a rural positive youth development program may facilitate identity development- in particular the constructs of agency, belonging, and competence, which are important for youth to thrive (Bowers, et. al, 2010; Carver, 1997). Survey responses were quantitatively analyzed and then used to facilitate selection of interview participants to deepen the understanding of the survey results. Drawing on the insights of Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) ecological systems theory, the results may provide insight for improvement of other programs. Specifically, these results illustrate the need to create a space that feels safe to all, which influences participants’ confidence, community building, relationship building, future planning, and decision making.

Author

• Denise Tambasco, University of California - Davis