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Abstract

This paper reports on the program satisfaction of teen parents who resided in residential programs developed as part of welfare reform in Massachusetts. These teen living programs (TLPs) provide an alternative living situation for teen-parent welfare recipients who cannot live with a parent or guardian, but who must live in an approved setting to receive assistance. One hundred and ninety-nine interviews were conducted with teen parents, 72 with those who were currently living in the program and 127 with those who had left the program. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected to assess global satisfaction with services, satisfaction with specific program components, and other open-ended feedback about the program. The measurement of program satisfaction is particularly important for programs serving young people, as they typically have few opportunities to voice their views. Consequently, implications for further program practice are identified.

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A Consumer View of Teen Living Programs: Teen Parents' Satisfaction with Program Components and Services

Abstract

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