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Positive Adolescent Development: Effects of a Psychosocial Intervention Program in a Rural Setting

Author

Listed:
  • Diana Paricio

    (Department of Psychology and Education Sciences, Open University of Catalonia, 46003 Valencia, Spain)

  • Maria F. Rodrigo

    (Department of Methodology for the Behavioural Sciences, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain)

  • Paz Viguer

    (Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain)

  • Marina Herrera

    (Department of Social Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain)

Abstract

The Positive Youth Development (PYD) approach identifies adolescents as resources to be empowered rather than problems to be solved. All adolescents have strengths and will fully develop when these strengths are integrated with healthy resources in the diverse environments where they live and interact. The objective of this study was twofold: (1) to present the Positive Development Program for Adolescents living in rural areas (DPAR Program) and (2) to pilot test the intervention program. The DPAR program was evaluated using a repeated-measures design before and after the intervention, with an intervention group and a control group. The sample consisted of 176 adolescents between 11 and 15 years old (M = 12.89, SD = 0.90) who belonged to two high schools with similar characteristics located in rural settings. A mixed-design analysis of variance was performed for each dependent variable. Results showed a significant increase in most of the study variables (self-esteem, self-efficacy, group identity, empathy, relational skills, assertiveness, and conflict resolution) and a significant decrease in alexithymia, as well as better academic performance. All this evidence indicates that the DPAR program is effective in promoting positive adolescent development and addresses the lack of programs based on the PYD approach in rural areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Diana Paricio & Maria F. Rodrigo & Paz Viguer & Marina Herrera, 2020. "Positive Adolescent Development: Effects of a Psychosocial Intervention Program in a Rural Setting," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(18), pages 1-17, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:17:y:2020:i:18:p:6784-:d:415036
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Deane, Kelsey L. & Harré, Niki, 2014. "Program theory-driven evaluation science in a youth development context," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 45(C), pages 61-70.
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