Evaluation and Outcomes

Evaluation Design

A classic randomized pretest/posttest with a control group design was used (Campbell & Stanley, 1969) for the evaluation.

Group C: The control group did not receive the intervention. The control groups were matched demographically to each other and to the experimental groups.

Group PS: This group participated in the Positive Youth Development Curriculum (PYDC) and performed community service activities (dosage = 2 hours/wk). Caregivers and family members were invited to attend family workshops and activities.

Group MPS: This group participated in the PYDC, community service activities, and family workshops and activities. In addition, participants in this group were matched with older mentors with whom they met regularly for two to three hours per week

Outcomes for Youth

• Significant improvement in knowledge about and reactions to drug use;
• Significant decrease in substance use (e.g. alcohol and tobacco);
• Significant improvement in school-related behavior as measured by increased school attendance, decreased suspensions from school and improved grades;
• Significant improvement in attitudes toward school and the future;
• Significant improvement in attitudes toward adults in general and older adults in particular;
  Improvement in well-being;

The level of mentor involvement was positively related to improvement on various outcome measures.

Outcomes for Families

• Increased participation in school related activities;
• More positive communication with children;
• Engaged in more activities (positive) as a family;
• Gained access to community resources; and
• Expanded support networks