How participation in youth programs influences adult volunteerism and patriotism in different U.S. generations

TitleHow participation in youth programs influences adult volunteerism and patriotism in different U.S. generations
Year of Publication2006
AuthorsSpahr, M
DegreeUnknown
UniversityIllinois State University
Thesis TypeMaster's thesis
Abstract

This study looked at generational differences, specifically the Baby Boom Generation and the Y-Generation to determine if various youth program participation has an effect on subsequent adult attributes of volunteerism and patriotism. An online survey was completed by 263 subjects. The survey included the following variables: gender, year of birth, U.S. citizenship, past and present state of residence, racial/ethnic background, educational level, and types of youth programs subjects participated in as children. Results from the statistical analyses found relationships between participants of youth service clubs and adult patriotism, competitive youth activities and adult patriotism, number of years of participation in 4-H club and adult volunteerism, and the Baby Boom Generation and adult volunteerism. Implications for the impact of various youth programs on later volunteerism and patriotism are discussed.