The effects of service participation, friendship networks, and family support on developmental outcomes: a study of young people from low-income families in Hong Kong.
This research investigates the factors conducive to the success of young people growing up in low-income families. Many studies carried out locally and overseas focus on the risks and difficulties experienced by these young people; however, little attempt has been made to examine the factors that help them change their lives from failure, poverty, and social exclusion. Based on a quantitative survey of 405 young people recruited from schools and integrated youth service centers in Hong Kong, this research identifies a range of indicators of, and necessary conditions for, the positive development of young people with economic disadvantage. It also evaluates the way in which the functions of service participation, friendship networks, and various family factors support them to thrive in different areas. The study helps fill the gap of the existing literature and draws implications for policy and practice to address the needs of these youths. Future directions of research are also discussed.
Ngai
Steven Sek-Yum
SS
Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong. syngai@cuhk.edu.hk
Ngai
Ngan-Pun
NP
Cheung
Chau-Kiu
CK
To
Siu-Ming
SM
D000124:Achievement; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D033062:Friends / Q000523:psychology*; D006723:Hong Kong; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008297:Male; D010553:Personality Development; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012934:Social Isolation; D012944:Social Support; D012946:Social Welfare; D012951:Socialization