4-H Youth Leaders: Acquisition of Leadership Skills Based on Perceived Influence

Author

Cathy Bartlett Gray MA, University of Southern MaineFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2020

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Leadership Studies

Keywords

4-H, youth leadership, teen leadership, Maine 4-H, youth perceptions, Leadership and Organizational Studies

Abstract

This study focuses on youth perceptions of influence on others and leadership skills they may seek to acquire, particularly within the Maine 4-H program. Understanding the relationship between the youth perception of leadership influence and the skills they seek to acquire will enable 4-H club leaders and adult mentors to better facilitate acquisition of leadership skills. This study gains understanding from the perspective of current teen leaders in the Maine 4-H program through the use of personal interviews with active teen leaders. Findings indicate that Maine 4-H Teen Leaders do not necessarily recognize the influence they have with their peers and therefore, do not tend to seek out new leadership skills based on their perceived influence. Though some youths are interested in developing their leadership skills, being able to recognize their positive influence on others appears to be gap in overall leadership understanding.

Recommended Citation

Bartlett Gray, Cathy MA, "4-H Youth Leaders: Acquisition of Leadership Skills Based on Perceived Influence" (2020). All Student Scholarship. 385.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/etd/385