A Mixed Methods Examination of Resilience and Social Connectedness Among Youth in an Alternative to Suspension Program

Since 1970 suspension rates for adolescents have more than doubled across the nation. Numerous risk factors serve as determinants and are associated with such outcomes. However, presented with these alarming statistics advocates have called for an alternative to out of school suspension policies and practices. Embedded within this context is an alternative to suspension program located in North Carolina that seeks to serve as a community resource and promote positive youth development. This study employed a transformative mixed methods design to 1) understand the extent to which the alternative to suspension program affects youth outcomes (measured by resilience, social connectedness, and re-suspension); and 2) understand the extent to which the alternative to suspension program affects youth relationships at the parent and teacher level.;Quantitative data were collected at pre and post level from program participants (n = 99) and teachers (n = 103) during the spring 2012 term. In addition, suspension data were collected 3-months following program participation to further examine program effects on re-suspension. Qualitative data were collected using focus groups and interviews with program participants and parents to provide a richer and more in-depth understanding of the program and its impact. Findings suggest that the program increases resilience, social connectedness and positive relationships with teachers and parents. These findings contribute to the literature on resilience and alternative to suspension programs and acknowledge the importance of contextual factors on youth outcomes.