Research indicates that parent-child connectedness is a protective factor against risky behaviors that are associated with adolescent pregnancy. The Center for Social Work Research is conducting a supplemental program evaluation for LifeWorks’ Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Project as part of a five-year grant from the US Office of Adolescent Pregnancy Programs (OAPP). Focusing on the parents of elementary and middle school students who participate in school-based youth development support groups with LifeWorks’ staff members, this project explores perceptions of parent-child connectedness. Data is being collected from parents through surveys administered at family nights and through focus groups conducted in both English and Spanish. Feedback is also being obtained from school counselors through a survey about parent-child connectedness. The overall goal of this project is to make recommendations that will foster parent-child connectedness in youth development programs.
Sponsor:
LifeWorks / US Office of Adolescent Pregnancy Programs / US Office of Population Affairs