Abstract
This paper discusses a national study designed to identify and describe obstacles to youth voice in the decision-making process in the 4-H youth development program from the perception of three distinct populations - State 4-H Program Leaders, 4-H State Youth Development Specialists, and 4-H Youth Agents/Educators. When examining these professionals’ views on the barriers affecting youth voice in the decision-making process, time and scheduling seem to consistently present the largest barrier to youth voice. Involvement in the decision-making process provides a wide range of hurdles including the opportunity structures, involvement procedures, representation and dynamics within the process. Adult power and control provides a significant hurdle to authentic engagement of youth voice in the decision-making progress. Respect barriers were described by concepts such as preconceived notions, trust and valuing input. Additional barriers were identified including organizational culture, lack of transportation, lack of knowledge/experience, lack of preparation, lack of training, fear, misguided leadership, unclear expectations, participation, staffing and lack of resources.
Highlights
Youth development is the process of positively developing a young person’s capacities by promoting the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual growth of youth to help them transition into adulthood
Through the process of youth development, young people become focused on achievement and goals, work in the direction of those goals, and avoid behaviors that would prevent the attainment of those goals (Hirschi, 1969)
When examining 4-H youth development professionals’ perceptions on the obstacles that affect youth voice in the decision-making process, time and scheduling was consistently present as the largest barrier to youth voice
Summary
Youth development is the process of positively developing a young person’s capacities by promoting the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual growth of youth to help them transition into adulthood. Through the process of youth development, young people become focused on achievement and goals, work in the direction of those goals, and avoid behaviors that would prevent the attainment of those goals (Hirschi, 1969) Youth development organizations such as 4-H prepare young people to meet the challenges of adolescence positively transitioning into adulthood through a well conceived, progressive sequence of activities and experiences that promote social, emotional, ethical, physical, and cognitive competencies. They address the broader developmental assets all youth need, such as: caring relationships, safe places and activities, both physical and mental health, life skills, and opportunities for community service and civic participation (National Youth Development Information Center, 2000). Research on youth development programs has identified the following key elements:
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