Abstract
This multi-phased study assessed stakeholder needs and provided training for summer camp staff, a collaboration between a university and community organization. Phases I through III established the collaboration through trainings for 4-H extension agents and teen counselors. Phase IVa assessed the perceived training needs of 41 adult summer camp staff as they relate to interpersonal difficulties experienced in the camp setting. Phase IVb included adaptation of evidence-based practices to target the needs indicated by staff as well as training competencies required by 4-H policy. 4-H Center Staff completed pre-training, post-training, and follow-up questionnaires. Measurement of training efficacy was assessed using mixed-methods analyses to determine feasibility by measuring overall training satisfaction, changes in confidence, and knowledge of problem solving techniques. Results of Phase IVa informed the creation of a novel training paradigm (Phase IVb). Participants indicated high satisfaction in the training program and significantly improved on knowledge of problem solving techniques, willingness to approach difficult problems, and self-efficacy to implement problem solving techniques. Preliminary results from follow-up questionnaires revealed some continued use of training materials throughout camp experience. Implications for future trainings and continued collaborations are suggested.
Highlights
Of the 73 participants that completed the post-training questionnaire, nine completed the Problem Solving Self-Monitoring Form (PSSM) with responses based on a problem they had encountered in their work throughout the summer as a 4-H Center staff member
The current study serves as a training model illustrating the successful assessment of client need and adaptation of evidence-based materials. This serves as an example of a community partnership that demonstrates training and research in an applied setting
Findings replicate previous reports suggesting participating in a camp setting increases levels of self-efficacy and problem solving (Carter & Kotrlik, 2008)
Summary
Any 4-H Center summer staff member was eligible to participate in the online needs assessment study. Following completion of the pre-training assessment, adult 4-H Center summer staff were invited to participate in a training which addressed how to best apply problem solving techniques across the three scaffolded levels of 4-H personnel (e.g., campers, teen camp counselors, and other adult staff). Sessions focused on the following guiding principles consistent with PST: taking a positive problem solving orientation (e.g., viewing problems as challenges rather than threats); challenging dysfunctional attitudes toward problem solving; regulating negative emotional responses; generating alternative solutions; evaluating solution outcomes non-judgmentally; and self-monitoring These components were conveyed in an acronym SSTA (i.e., Stop, Slow Down, Think, and Act; Nezu, Nezu, & D’Zurilla, 2013) to help staff recall the steps. Nine adult 4-H Center summer staff completed the follow-up assessment 3 months after the training
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Collaborations: A Journal of Community-Based Research and Practice
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
