4

Citation Information

• Authors: Cumming, J.; Clarke, F.J.; Holland, M.J.G.; Parry, B.J.; Quinton, M.L.; Cooley, S.J.

• Title: A Feasibility Study of the My Strengths Training for Life™ (MST4Life™) Program for Young People Experiencing Homelessness

• Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

• Publication Year: 2022

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063320

• Received: 29 January 2022

• Accepted: 8 March 2022

• Published: 11 March 2022

• Publisher: MDPI, Basel, Switzerland

• License: Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY)

Abstract

• MST4Life™ Overview: A positive youth development program aimed at improving well-being and social inclusion for homeless young people.

• Program Origin: Co-developed with a UK housing service as part of an 8-year community-academic partnership.

• Study Design: Mixed-methods study assessing feasibility and acceptability with 15 young participants (mean age 19.99 years).

• Program Structure: 8 weekly community sessions followed by a residential outdoor adventure.

• Findings: Participants enjoyed the program and saw a need for it, indicating its acceptability and engagement levels.

• Recommendations: Minor modifications needed for recruitment strategies before wider evaluation.

Introduction

• Homelessness Statistics: A global public health problem with significant social and economic costs.

• Challenges for Youth: Increased difficulties for young people (e.g., mental health issues, lack of opportunities, NEET-status).

• Intervention Need: Importance of strengths-based interventions promoting emotional management and life skills.

The My Strengths Training for Life™ Program

Background

• Inspiration: Based on mental skills training used in sports, adapted for homeless youth.

• Goals: Reduce health and social inequalities and empower young service users in transitioning to independent living.

Program Components

• Mental Skills Training: Techniques used by athletes that can aid personal goal achievement.

• Target Outcomes: Reducing homelessness likelihood, improving overall health, and lowering mental illness rates.

Frameworks Used

• Positive Youth Development (PYD): Focusing on building both internal and external assets for youth.

• Self-Determination Theory (SDT): Emphasizing the importance of autonomy, relatedness, and competence in development.

Study Aim

• Feasibility Assessment: To evaluate recruitment effectiveness, acceptability, and participants' responses before broader implementation.

Materials and Methods

Recruitment

• Participant Criteria: Homeless youth in supported accommodation, referred by support workers due to NEET status or limited mental skills.

Program Phases

• Phase 1: 8 weekly community sessions focusing on skill development (e.g., goal-setting, organizational skills).

• Phase 2: A 4-day/3-night residential trip to an outdoor center, aimed at transferring skills learned during the community phase.

Data Collection and Analysis

Methods Used

• Attendance Records: Tracking participation in sessions.

• Qualitative Methods: Diary rooms and focus groups to gather participant reflections and feedback.

Data Sources

• Diary Rooms: Video diaries from participants reflecting on experiences at set points during the program.

• Focus Groups: Discussions to gather in-depth experiences from both young participants and support workers.

Results

Participant Recruitment

• Reach: 15 participants out of 78 potential, showcasing the need for improved recruitment strategies.

Program Acceptability

• Attendance Rates: 75% over the 8-week course, with full participation during the residential trip.

Engagement and Reactions

• Youth Feedback: Participants expressed surprise and pride regarding personal growth, establishing a strong rapport with facilitators.

Discussion

• Program Feasibility: MST4Life™ is deemed feasible, with positive participant feedback on content and delivery style, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative and supportive environment.

• Future Directions: Suggestions for recruitment improvement and further testing of the program across diverse youth populations facing homelessness.

Conclusion

• Summary: MST4Life™ effectively integrates strengths-based approaches and psychological frameworks, providing a valuable intervention for supporting young homeless individuals towards future independence.