Exploring the Adolescent Life Skill Outcomes of State 4-H Congress Participation and the Different Outcomes of Gender and Race Groups

Authors

Barry A. Garst, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia TechFollow
Joseph R. Hunnings, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia TechFollow
Kathleen Jamison, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia TechFollow
Jewel Hairston, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia TechFollow

Volume

44

Issue

6

Abstract

Research suggests residential 4-H programs enhance life skills. The study reported here explored the life skill outcomes of a 4-day residential State 4-H Congress. Participants were youth ages 14-18. A retrospective pre test and post test were used to evaluate life skills development. Paired sample t-tests indicated significant differences among all of the pre-test and post-test gain scores. Analysis of variance comparisons indicated males and females differed on some life skill items. The study supports the importance of purposeful planning for positive outcomes, as the greatest gains were related to Congress components that were designed to enhance specific life skills.

Recommended Citation

Garst, B. A., Hunnings, J. R., Jamison, K., & Hairston, J. (2006). Exploring the Adolescent Life Skill Outcomes of State 4-H Congress Participation and the Different Outcomes of Gender and Race Groups. The Journal of Extension, 44(6), Article 11. https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol44/iss6/11