When evaluating a program aiming to investigate psychological distress and its associated factors among 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 psychological distress and identifying its associated factors among youth. Define psychological distress in terms of symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, or other relevant indicators. Determine the specific factors to be investigated, such as social support, academic pressure, family dynamics, or other potential contributors to psychological distress.
Select appropriate evaluation methods. Quantitative methods such as surveys or standardized scales can provide data on the prevalence and severity of psychological distress and the strength of associations with various factors. Qualitative methods such as interviews or focus groups can provide deeper insights into the lived experiences of youth and the contextual factors contributing to psychological distress.
Recruit participants and collect data.: Recruit a diverse sample of youth to participate in the program evaluation. Ensure the sample represents the target population and includes individuals from different backgrounds and demographics. Collect data on participants' demographics, psychological distress symptoms, and potential associated factors. 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 psychological distress and its associated factors among youth. Use statistical analysis to examine the relationships between psychological distress symptoms and potential factors, such as social support, academic pressure, or family dynamics. Identify patterns, correlations, or associations between variables. Apply qualitative analysis techniques, such as thematic analysis, to identify common themes and experiences related to psychological distress and its associated factors.
Provide actionable recommendations: Based on the evaluation findings, provide actionable recommendations to address psychological distress and its associated factors among youth. Consider recommendations that focus on prevention, early intervention, or support mechanisms. For example, recommend mental health education programs, peer support initiatives, or counseling services. Advocate for the integration of mental health support within educational institutions, families, and communities.
