Push” and “Pull” A Qualitative Study of Factors that Contribute to Older Youth Leaving the 4-H Program

Abstract

For years, 4-H has struggled with the complex issue of membership retention, especially among older youth. However, little research has been done concerning why 4-H members choose to leave the program. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the reasons for leaving 4-H with the ultimate goal of improving retention of older members. Specific objectives of the study were to (a) explore reasons why youth chose not to re-enroll in the program, (b) identify barriers to participation, and (c) determine what conditions would facilitate participation. Focus group participants consisted of older youth (n=16) who were enrolled in 4-H in a community club in 2007 in Erie County (Ohio), but who did not re-enroll in 2008. Significant findings from the study concerning the retention of older 4-H youth were related to (a) experiences with adult leaders, (b) experiences with competition, and (c) conflicts with other activities. Recommendations for theory, research, and practice are offered.

4-H STEM Curriculum Challenges: A Delphi study

“…Competition with other activities is not a new phenomenon to 4-H member retention (Albright & Ferrari, 2010;Astroth, 1985;Harder et al, 2005;Meeks-Baney & Jones, 2013). This is recognized as a challenge by both the volunteer and educator panels.…”

“…This is recognized as a challenge by both the volunteer and educator panels. As youth get older, time conflicts can arise with jobs and other out-of-school organizations such as organized sports (Albright & Ferrari, 2010;Harder et al, 2005). Meeks-Baney and Jones (2013) contend youth want to participate in organizations meeting their needs for affiliation (relationships) and achievement (recognition).…”

“…Meeks-Baney and Jones (2013) contend youth want to participate in organizations meeting their needs for affiliation (relationships) and achievement (recognition). Youth also want to hold meaningful roles and utilize time wisely, and if needs are not met, youth will leave a program (Albright & Ferrari, 2010).…”

“…With the knowledge that youth leave 4-H due to other activities' meeting intrinsic needs, time constraints, and job requirements, educators and volunteers should support youth within these areas. By working closely with other organizations vying for youths' time and developing strategies to assist each other, 4-H members can experience affiliation and success within more than one organization and increase satisfaction and retention (Albright & Ferrari, 2010;Meeks-Baney & Jones, 2013). Club structure could also increase in flexibility to allow youth participation in other activities (Harder et al, 2005).…”

Demographic indicators of persistence among intermediate 4-H members in Iowa

“…Issues of -uninvolved and over-involved‖(Albright, 2010, p. 6) club leaders were mentioned. As previously mentioned, these negative experiences within the 4-H club environment may affect persistence of members Albright's (2010). research also revealed another reason for decreased participation: competition.…”