Implementation of project P.A.T.H.S. in Hong Kong : consideration of school-related factors

Utilizing a case study approach, individual and focus group interviews were conducted to identify school-related factors influencing the process and quality of implementation of the Tier 1 Program of the Project P.A.T.H.S.. Results showed that the program implementation quality was generally high. Factors facilitating the implementation of the program were identified, including administrative support from school and social work agency, presence of dedicated teachers, positive perceptions of the program among teachers, teachers’ self-disclosure, effective continuous assessment, and excellent co-teaching mode. Difficulties encountered by the school in the process of implementation were also observed. Based on the present findings, school-related process variables facilitating and impeding the implementation of positive youth development programs in the Chinese contexts are discussed.