Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Summer 2009

Publication Title

Journal of Youth Development

Volume

4

Issue

2

Publisher

National Association of Extension 4-H Agents

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the developmental outcomes of 4-H camp experiences as identified by parents and guardians. The authors examined (1) the changes in youth life skill behaviors that parents/guardians attribute to a 5-day residential 4-H camping experience, (2) their perceptions of consistency in the life skills gained across multiple camps and years, and (3) differences in life skill development between male and female youth participants. Parents of campers ages 9-13 were randomly sampled in 2001 (n=363), 2004 (n=326), and 2007 (n=326) and asked to report changes in their child's behavior following camp. Results indicate an overall consistency in parent reports of youth life skill development over time. Life skills that showed consistent gains over seven years and across six 4-H educational centers included an enhanced ability for youth to take care of their own things and to share work responsibilities.

Comments

The published version of this article can be found here: http://www.nae4ha.com/assets/documents/JYD_090402final.pdf

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