Evaluation based on personal construct psychology : findings based on the repertory grid test

Using personal construct psychology as the framework, 104 program participants were randomly selected to complete a repertory grid test, where personal constructs for different role figures including different selves before and after joining the Project P.A.T.H.S. were elicited from the informants. Quantitative and qualitative data based on elicited constructs surrounding self-identity changes after joining the program were examined. Quantitative and qualitative findings showed that participants identified themselves with their “ideal self,” “a successful person,” and “a mature peer” more after the program. At the same time, they perceived that they were more distant from “a loser” after joining the program. Compared with the self before joining the program, the self after joining the program was closer to the positive role figures. Six exemplar grids showing the positive changes in the program participants after joining the program are shown. The present study underscores the utility of the repertory grid technique in positive youth development programs.