The value of 4-H competitive activities as perceived by the parents of 4-H members

The purpose of this study was to explore 4-H parents' opinions with regard to the educational value for competition in two Texas Extension districts. Furthermore, the study examined the relationship between certain demographic variables and perceptions of parents. A mailed questionnaire was distributed to 250 randomly selected parents of currently enrolled 4-H members in Texas Districts II and IV taken from a list supplied by Extension administrators, the response was 70%. Almost 90% were Caucasian/American and were currently married. Nearly half of the parents were raised on a farm or ranch, over 60% responded that they were former 4-H members, and 80% were serving as a volunteer leader. Overall, the responding parents indicated a positive view of 4-H competition, cooperative efforts and individual activities. Parents reported that personal skill development and self-esteem were the motivation for enrolling their child in the 4-H program. Concerns over competition included too much parental participation and ethical problems. Those who were more positive toward competition included senior volunteer leaders rather than junior leaders, 4-H camp participants and former 4-H members who joined at a later age.