Perceived benefits of a life and career development program adopting positive youth development approach in Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper presents a qualitative evaluation study which examined the subjective experience and perceived benefits of 57 Secondary 3 students who had participated in a life and career development project using the positive youth development approach in a Tier 2 Program of the Project P.A.T.H.S. in Hong Kong. Focus group methodology was adopted in the study. Results showed that the students had very positive views about the program. They expressed that the program enhanced their intrapersonal competence (self-confidence, courage, resilience and future aspirations) as well as interpersonal competence (cooperation and communication skills of the students through teamwork). The students had reflections of their past lifestyles and were motivated to make positive changes. They became more forward-looking on their future paths, and showed eagerness to establish their life goals, formulate their future plans, and research more information on their future aspirations. The present study provides evidence on the effectiveness of the use of positive youth development programs in nurturing the holistic development of Chinese adolescents through life and career development programs.