The Influence of Participating in Livestock Projects on 4-H Developmental Outcomes Among Pima County Senior 4-H Members As Perceived by Their Parents

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the influence of participating in livestock projects on 4-H developmental outcomes among senior Pima county 4-H members in the last four years as perceived by the member’s parents. The study also sought out to, compare these outcomes among the different livestock species (Beef, Goat/Sheep and Swine. An electronic questionnaire was sent out and 54 respondents were analyzed to reach the findings. Participants were asked questions about the perceived developmental outcomes their children gained from their time in a 4-H livestock project using the Thriving Model to generate questions to gauge these outcomes. The data shared that there is little difference when looking at developmental outcomes comparing species, however all species were very influential on these developmental outcomes as perceived by participants parents. It is recommended to continue supporting these projects and making them widely accessible for all youth who wish to participate in them.