When evaluating a program aiming to investigate the experience of abuse and the subjective well-being of foster youth, consider the following five points:
Clearly define program objectives: Clearly articulate the objectives of the program evaluation, specifying the desired outcomes related to understanding the experience of abuse and its impact on the subjective well-being of foster youth. Define the specific forms of abuse to be investigated, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and determine the dimensions of subjective well-being, such as life satisfaction, happiness, or overall mental well-being.
Select appropriate evaluation methods. Qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, or narrative analysis can provide in-depth insights into the experiences of abuse and its impact on subjective well-being. Quantitative methods such as surveys or standardized scales can help gather data on subjective well-being indicators and the prevalence and nature of abuse experiences.
Recruit participants and collect data.: Recruit a diverse sample of foster youth to participate in the program evaluation. Ensure the sample represents the target population and includes individuals from different ages, genders, and backgrounds. Collect data on participants' demographics, foster care experiences, experiences of abuse, and subjective well-being. Administer surveys or questionnaires to gather quantitative data and conduct interviews or focus groups to collect qualitative data.
Analyze and interpret data.: Analyze the collected data to evaluate the experiences of abuse and subjective well-being among foster youth. Use statistical analysis to examine associations between abuse experiences, subjective well-being, and other relevant variables. Apply qualitative analysis techniques, such as thematic analysis, to identify common themes and patterns in the qualitative data, including the impact of abuse on subjective well-being and coping mechanisms used by foster youth.
Provide actionable recommendations: Based on the evaluation findings, provide actionable recommendations to support foster youth who have experienced abuse and enhance their subjective well-being. Consider recommendations that address individual, interpersonal, and systemic levels. For example, recommend trauma-informed support services, counseling resources, or specialized training for foster parents and caregivers. Advocate for policy changes and system improvements to create safe and supportive environments for foster youth.
