Abstract
The goal of this study was to examine the types of social support provided by STRIVE, an inner-city-based workforce development program. Life history interviews were conducted with 20 African American graduates (aged 18–24 years) of the workforce development program. Nearly half of the sample was male (45%). Over half of the sample was employed at the time of the interview (65%). Participants described receiving extensive informational and emotional support from the workforce development program. After participating in the workforce development program, respondents described themselves as being less stressed and more self-confident. Participants described using the skills gained and support offered to gain employment, enroll in educational programs, and interact more effectively with others. Thus, workforce development programs may be a viable option to address employment needs and provide meaningful support to vulnerable young people during their transition into adulthood.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 333-345 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Journal of community psychology |
Volume | 45 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 1 2017 |
Keywords
- qualitative
- social support
- workforce development
- young adult
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Psychology