Research

The dual mission of 4-H is to engage youth in reaching their fullest potential while advancing the field of youth development. The California 4-H Program, along with other 4-H programs across the U.S., plays a leading role in contributing to the body of research on youth development.

4-H programs are evidence-based. We analyze and document our impact on youth and then disseminate our findings to advance the field of youth development. This scientific base helps us to anticipate problems and develop practical solutions in the communities we serve.

Some of the research from the California 4-H Youth Development Program and our partners:

The Step-it-Up-to-Thrive Theory of Change by Katherine Heck, Aarti Subrananiam, and Ramona Carlos (2010)
Youth Development Frameworks by Katherine Heck and Aarti Subrananiam (2009)
Findings from the CA 4-H Camp Study (2007)
Fact Sheet 4-H Impacts Young People's Interests in Science, Engineering, and Technology (from Tufts study Wave 6)