Young women’s lived experience of participating in a positive youth development programme: the “Teens & Toddlers” pregnancy prevention intervention

Sorhaindo, A., Mitchell, K. , Fletcher, A., Jessiman, P., Keogh, P. and Bonell, C. (2016) Young women’s lived experience of participating in a positive youth development programme: the “Teens & Toddlers” pregnancy prevention intervention. Health Education, 116(4), pp. 356-371. (doi: 10.1108/HE-01-2015-0002)

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Abstract

Purpose – Evaluation of the Teens & Toddlers (T&T) positive youth development (PYD) and teenage pregnancy prevention programme suggested that the intervention had minimal effectiveness partly due to its unclear theory of change. This study examines the lived experiences of young women participating in the programme to contribute to a clearer understanding of intervention process and potential mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach – We conducted four focus groups (n=20), eight paired or triad interviews (n=12) and 15 interviews with young women participating in an RCT of the T&T programme in England, analysing these data using a phenomenological approach. Findings – T&T provided some opportunities to experience the ‘five Cs’ that underpin PYD programme theory: competence, confidence, connection, character and caring. However, the young women did not experience the programme in a way that would consistently develop these characteristics. The lack of opportunities for skill-building and challenge in the activities constrained their ability to build competence and confidence. Some programme facilitators and counselors were able to achieve connections and caring relationships with the young women, though other adults involved in the programme were sometimes perceived by the participants as overly critical. The character development activities undertaken in the programme addressed attitudes towards sexual risktaking. Originality/value – Few studies of the PYD approach examine young people’s perspectives. This research suggests that the young women were not consistently provided with opportunities to achieve youth development within the T&T programme. In refining the programme, more thought is needed regarding how delivery of particular components may facilitate or impede a PYD experience.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Mitchell, Professor Kirstin
Authors: Sorhaindo, A., Mitchell, K., Fletcher, A., Jessiman, P., Keogh, P., and Bonell, C.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
Journal Name:Health Education
Publisher:Emerald
ISSN:0965-4283
Published Online:01 January 2016
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2016 Emerald Group Publishing Limited
First Published:First published in Health Education 116(4): 356-371
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

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