Semester of Graduation

Spring 2026

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Agricultural and Extension Education and Evaluation

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Teen participation in 4-H has declined nationally in recent years, raising concerns about long-term program sustainability and youth engagement. Understanding the factors that influence teens’ decisions to remain involved in 4-H is critical for informing program design and delivery. Guided by the theory of planned behavior, this qualitative study explored teen perceptions of 4-H programming, youth voice, social influences, communication, and barriers to participation. Data were collected through two group interviews with teen 4-H members representing multiple parishes. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the constant comparative method through a three-phase coding process consisting of open, axial, and theoretical coding. In vivo and process coding techniques were employed to center youth voices, and emergent categories were aligned with the theory of planned behavior to generate five major themes.

Analysis revealed five major themes influencing teen retention in 4-H: (a) youth attitudes toward 4-H programming, (b) perceptions of youth voice within 4-H programs, (c) peer influence and social expectations surrounding 4-H, (d) normative influence of 4-H communication and recruitment, and (e) perceived barriers to participation in 4-H. Findings indicated that teens valued hands-on, experiential learning opportunities and expressed frustration with programming perceived as repetitive or overly classroom-based. Participants emphasized the importance of meaningful youth voice, noting that limited follow-through on youth ideas negatively affected engagement. Peer influence emerged as a powerful factor in both recruitment and continued participation, while inconsistent communication and limited exposure to opportunities reduced awareness and involvement. Perceived barriers such as time commitments, cost, transportation, and lack of confidence further constrained participation, particularly for older youth.

These findings suggest that practitioners should prioritize experiential, youth-centered programming, intentionally incorporate youth leadership and decision-making opportunities, and strengthen peer-to-peer recruitment efforts. Additionally, improving communication consistency across parishes and reducing access-related barriers may enhance teen retention and support sustained engagement in 4-H programming.

Date

2-24-2026

Committee Chair

O'Malley, Adam

LSU Acknowledgement

1

LSU Accessibility Acknowledgment

1

Download

Share

COinS