Lessons from the Front Lines: Factors that Contribute to Turnover among Youth Development Workers

Abstract

Motivated, competent Youth Development Workers (YDW's ) are essential to effective youth outreach programs. This study explores factors affecting job turnover among Youth Development Workers (YDW's) through detailed direct observation and interviews of six YDW's in four organizations and a group interview with eight different YDW's. YDW stressors included few resources, high need among youth, paperwork, excessive responsibilities, burnout/cynicism, miscommunication with supervisors, personal financial strain and lack of job security. Workers identified needs for appreciation, support from superiors, opportunities to advance, experienced mentors, resources and role definition. For programs to be effective and minimize turnover, YDW's require resources, mentorship, role definition and appreciation.

Investing in Professional Development: Building and Sustaining a Viable 4-H Youth Workforce for the Future

“…Based on our experience, other national youth-serving organizations might also benefit from more regionalized trainings held on a regular basis. Training and support are often areas where new hires express the need for more help (Laroche & Klein, 2008). "Sink or swim" has too frequently been the training model in youth development.…”

“…However, in the case of the former the sacrifice is required while for the families it is a choice. Burnout is often cited as a reason for leaving by frontline youth workers (Laroche & Klein, 2008;Yohalem, Pittman, & Moore, 2006). And finally, youth work is so hectic and time demanding that training is sometimes sacrificed to direct service.…”