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Competency in Establishing Positive Relationships with Program Youth: The Impact of Organization and Youth Worker Characteristics

NCJ Number
237216
Journal
Child & Youth Services Volume: 32 Issue: 4 Dated: October-December 2011 Pages: 336-354
Author(s)
Laura Davidson; William P. Evans; Lorie Sicafuse
Date Published
December 2011
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated youth work programs in the United States
Abstract
Frontline youth workers' ability to form strong, positive relationships with program youth is a key element in maximizing the benefits of program participation. A recent National Collaboration of Youth (2006) report identified six elements associated with youth workers' competency to complete their professional roles: compensation, training opportunities, supportive work environment, clear work roles, sense that work is valued, and networking opportunities. The current study investigated whether having these elements predicted 459 youth workers' self-reported job competency in forming positive relationships with youth. Regression analyses revealed that job efficacy, clarity of work roles, and benefits significantly predicted competency in forming strong relationships with program youth. Findings are discussed in relation to practice implications for the youth work field. (Published Abstract)