Empowerment theory with relational and cognitive dimensions frames the predicted benefits of peer discussion¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 5 claims (2 for, 1 mixed, 2 against) · 1 study (1 associational), q3 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 5 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The article draws on empowerment theory (Christens et al., 2016) to frame how peer-driven discussions in youth-led groups may foster positive development. It states that "Empowerment reflects a process by which individuals gain a greater sense of agency and control over the psychological and social factors which impact them" and that "Multiple dimensions of empowerment have been proposed, including relational, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral empowerment." The study operationalizes relational empowerment as perceived peer validation and cognitive empowerment as hope, applying these dimensions to extracurricular diversity-oriented settings.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• The framework presupposes a youth-led, peer-supportive group context in which members can discuss sociopolitical issues with fellow members.

Constraints¶

• The article notes the role of extracurricular settings in promoting empowerment had not previously been considered in a way that distinguishes relational and cognitive empowerment.

Target Learners¶

• adolescent youth in secondary school extracurricular clubs (grades 6-12)

Target Learning Objectives¶

• sociopolitical empowerment, peer validation, and hope among marginalized youth

Claims¶

• Immigration Discussion In Gsas Predicts Peer Validation [+M]
• Immigration Discussion Hope Immigrant Origin Only [+M]
• Collective GSA-level immigration discussion frequency is not associated with group-level gains in any empowerment or critical consciousness outcome [-W]
• Youth lost to attrition had discussed immigration more frequently and reported lower hope and peer validation at baseline [~W]
• Immigration discussion frequency shows no significant association with critical reflection or sociopolitical efficacy [-W]

Related Theories¶

• Empowerment in counselling defined as a five-part process of awareness, skill and capacity, exercise, non-infringement, and support for others' empowerment

Examples¶

• Use equity-oriented extracurricular clubs as spaces for sustained peer dialogue on urgent civic issues

Key Sources¶

• Rosenbach, S. B., Sherwood, S. H., Poteat, V. P., Yoshikawa, H., & Calzo, J. P. (2022). Benefits for Immigrant-Origin and Non-Immigrant-Origin Youth of Discussing Immigration in Gender and Sexuality Alliances. Psychology in the Schools. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.22513