What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to understand how the skills of 4-H volunteer leaders affect the life skills that youth learn through programs.

May 28, 2026

Self-Perceived 4-H Leader Competencies and Their Relation to the Skills Youth Learn Through 4-H Youth Development Programs

Key Points

This research aims to understand how the skills of 4-H volunteer leaders affect the life skills that youth learn through programs.
Statewide survey conducted to assess volunteer leader skills and youth outcomes.
Focus on aspects like safety, conflict management, and volunteer support.
Analysis of the relationship between perceived leader abilities and skill development in youth.
The primary skill identified is the ability of leaders to ensure physical and psychological safety for youth.
Leaders' effectiveness in managing bullying and conflict significantly impacts youth skill acquisition.
Emphasis placed on the importance of recruiting, screening, and training leaders for better youth outcomes.

Abstract

This article reports the results of a statewide survey to assess the influence of perceived 4-H volunteer leader skills on the life skills 4-H youth learn. Results indicate the most important skill a volunteer leader possesses is to ensure the physical and psychological safety of 4-H members. This includes keeping youth from hurting each other's feelings; keeping youth from bullying each other; managing conflict between youth; making sure that the facility where 4-H youth meet is safe. These results emphasize the importance of the careful recruitment, screening, training, and management of 4-H volunteer leaders.

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