Sense of belonging as perceived by youths who continue participation in 4-H

Abstract

Sense of belonging is an essential element of a high-quality 4-H program. However, little research existsquantifying sense of belonging among 4-H club members. We measured perceived sense of belonging amongFlorida 4-H members in middle and high school as well as seven factors that influenced continued participationin 4-H. Parental involvement, 4-H events, and interactions with friends were factors important to participants'continued enrollment. Interaction with a caring adult was the factor most strongly positively correlated withperceived sense of belonging, suggesting the importance to retention of providing a framework that allows anew 4-H member to develop a positive relationship with a caring adult in a safe and inclusive environment.