Evaluating the impact of a positive youth development program using student diaries : Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Project in Mainland China

Abstract

The rising prevalence of mental health issues among students in mainland China calls for urgent responses, including the implementation of Positive Youth Development (PYD) programs. In this paper, we focus on the effectiveness of the “Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Project” via student diaries. In the 2016/17 (N = 1,832) and 2017/18 (N = 1,229) academic years, junior and senior high school students wrote reflections upon completing the program. Findings revealed that 96.90% of students acknowledged the program’s positive impact on their overall well-being across twelve domains. These include self-report improvements in intrapersonal competencies (encompassing cognitive, emotional, moral competencies, resilience, self-identity, and spirituality), interpersonal relationships, school adjustment, family functioning, and social responsibility. This research suggests that the “Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Project” substantially improves the quality of life and enhances psychosocial competence for adolescents. Theoretical and practical issues involved in the implementation of PYD programs in China are discussed.