Rural versus Urban African-American Adolescents

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the differences between rural versus urban African-American adolescents on several scores of perceived competence in important areas of an adolescent's development. The sample included only African-American adolescents either living in urban public housing developments or a rural area approximately 40 miles away in the mid-south region. The Harter scale was utilized and the areas of competence included: scholastic competence, physical appearance, athletic competence, behavioral conduct, close friendships, social acceptance, and global self-worth. All scores were analyzed between environments and within gender. The urban sample scored significantly higher on several normed mean scores of self-competence with the exception of athletic ability, and social acceptance. In addition, the sample was contrasted with the original population norms developed by the authors of Harter's Self-Perception Profile for Children (SPPC) scale and participants scored lower on several competencies including: scholastic abilities, athletic ability, social acceptance, close friendships, and behavioral conduct. The differences found may be influenced by parenting skills, environment, or the interaction between them. Implications for practice would suggest these youth have lower competency scores in important developmental areas, and should benefit from interventions designed to increase mastery in critical competency areas.