26: Evaluation of a Multi-Module Parenting and Life Skills Program for Youth Using Convergent Mixed Methods Design

Youth-focused programs often overlook components on parenting skills and responsibilities. This session introduces the recently adapted Parenting: It’s a Life (PIAL) program that addresses this gap. The multi-module PIAL program aims to educate youth on the emotional, social, and financial realities of parenting. We used a convergent mixed methods design to evaluate PIAL delivered to youth aged 13-25, including expectant and parenting youth in 15 Washington state schools and community sites in 2023-2024. Pre-post survey design was used to collect quantitative outcome data from the youth. Thirteen interviews were conducted with program facilitators to collect qualitative data on the contextual elements, successes, and lessons learned from implementing PIAL. The PIAL curriculum shows initial evidence of promising results, especially in parenting and child support-related modules. The qualitative results will help guide future adaptations, and further research is needed to understand the implementation strategies and effectiveness of the program across diverse populations.

David Rice – Research Assistant, Statistics, Washington State University; Brittany Cooper – Associate Professor, Human Development, Washington State University; Gitanjali Shrestha – Research Assistant Professor, Human Development, Washington State University