Mike Sherman

Abstract

Attempts to meet the mental health needs of at-risk youth have led to the development of numerous prevention, intervention, and diversion programs. This study is the first to utilize statistical analyses to assess the treatment efficacy of the Saint John's Child and Family Development Center's Youth Development Project (CFDC-YDP), a school- and community-based treatment program for at-risk youth. The study involved analysis of data that were collected from 87 culturally diverse at-risk youth, ranging in age from 11-19 years old, who were treated by the Youth Development Project program within John Adams Middle School, Lincoln Middle School, Olympic Continuation High School, and the Pico Youth & Family Center (all located in Santa Monica, California). Participants in the original study from which data were drawn were recruited during the 2009/2010 academic year and received treatment throughout that same time period. The findings of this study are based on comparison of pre- and post-intervention measures that include the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (Rosenberg, 1965), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (Radloff, 1991), Revised Life Orientation Test (Sheier, Carver, & Bridges, 1994), the General Mattering Scale (Marcus, 1991), and The Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (Phinney, 1992). Data was analyzed utilizing repeated measures multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), with participant age acting as a covariate. Significant findings include improved self-esteem scores and reduced depressive symptoms. The results, strengths and limitations of the study, and recommendations for the CFDC-YDP program are discussed.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Dissertations (PsyD) -- Psychology; Problem youth -- Mental health

Date of Award

2011

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Psychology

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Woo, Stephanie

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