An Evaluation of Adolescent Health Programs in Georgia
Disciplines
Public Health
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Georgia’s Department of Adolescent Health and Youth Development (AHYD) Program is based on the positive youth development approach recommended by the Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This program engaged youth within their communities, schools or organizations, peer groups and families in a productive and constructive manner. It utilizes and recognizes young people’s strengths and promotes positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships and furnishing the support needed to build on their strengths across all This evaluation of adolescent health programs in Georgia is aimed to assess the reach, effectiveness, and impact of existing programs on the health and well-being of adolescents in the state of Georgia across all 14 health districts. A thorough analysis of program data, surveys, and key informant interviews collected in 2022-2023 was completed. Overall, this evaluation found that through a combination of education, resources, and support, these programs have helped to improve adolescent health, particularly related to at-risk behaviors (including pregnancy prevention). More specifically, it addresses communication, goals setting, decision making, and addressing the benefits of abstaining from risky behaviors and promoting positive youth development. However, there is still room for improvement in addressing health disparities among marginalized communities and increasing access to healthcare for all adolescents in Georgia. Recommendations were made to further enhance and expand these programs to meet the diverse needs of adolescents and youth in the state. The lack of specificity on mental health is another challenge significantly impacting adolescent health issues within the state. By examining the effectiveness and gaps in current strategies, this assessment seeks to inform future policy decision and enhance the3 overall well-being of Georgia’s youth.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
WCHHS - Health Promotion and Physical Education
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Evelina Sterling
An Evaluation of Adolescent Health Programs in Georgia
Georgia’s Department of Adolescent Health and Youth Development (AHYD) Program is based on the positive youth development approach recommended by the Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This program engaged youth within their communities, schools or organizations, peer groups and families in a productive and constructive manner. It utilizes and recognizes young people’s strengths and promotes positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships and furnishing the support needed to build on their strengths across all This evaluation of adolescent health programs in Georgia is aimed to assess the reach, effectiveness, and impact of existing programs on the health and well-being of adolescents in the state of Georgia across all 14 health districts. A thorough analysis of program data, surveys, and key informant interviews collected in 2022-2023 was completed. Overall, this evaluation found that through a combination of education, resources, and support, these programs have helped to improve adolescent health, particularly related to at-risk behaviors (including pregnancy prevention). More specifically, it addresses communication, goals setting, decision making, and addressing the benefits of abstaining from risky behaviors and promoting positive youth development. However, there is still room for improvement in addressing health disparities among marginalized communities and increasing access to healthcare for all adolescents in Georgia. Recommendations were made to further enhance and expand these programs to meet the diverse needs of adolescents and youth in the state. The lack of specificity on mental health is another challenge significantly impacting adolescent health issues within the state. By examining the effectiveness and gaps in current strategies, this assessment seeks to inform future policy decision and enhance the3 overall well-being of Georgia’s youth.