Most youth prefer to learn new activities as part of a group. For a copy of this report, contact your state 4-H program leader or Joanne Keith, Project Leader, Cooperative Extension Service, Michigan State University, College of Human Ecology, Room 203, East Lansing, Michigan 48824. This project was a cooperative effort of family life specialists nationwide, and was directed by James Van Horn, family sociology specialist for Pennsylvania State University's Cooperative Extension. This extensive compilation summarizes research findings and programming resources for families throughout the lifespan. Parents' interest in the child's welfare appears to be a primary factor in encouraging the youth's positive self-esteem.
Parents continue to express concern about their competence in raising children.
Those who feel the least competent tend to be mothers of adolescents, who indicate a need for more information on how to deal effectively with the adolescent's growing need for independence, and how to cope with the teen's volatile emotions and moods. For many families, adolescence is the most stressful stage in the lifecycle. If you'd like to borrow a copy of The MAPP Project , check with your county home economist or state family life specialist. Extension professionals are in a unique position to help meet the educational needs of adolescents and their families. Both The Michigan Early Adolescent Survey and The MAPP Project should be welcome additions for providing programming insights and resources for Extension staff.