Developing Youth's Capacity to Lead Through Complexities: Exploring 4-H Extension Agents’ Perception on Barriers and Opportunities

Abstract

As the world faces dynamic challenges affecting societies and organizations, there has been an increasing call for the development of transformational leadership among youth. This focus is critical for preparing for the future and for inspiring hope, trust, and cooperation. Unfortunately, despite the popularity of the transformational leadership domain, the emphasis has largely been on adult leaders. Thus, this study explores 4-H Extension agents’ perspectives about barriers to and support areas for fostering transformational leadership development (TLD) among youth. Interviews revealed primary barriers and strategies that influence success with youth TLD, acknowledging the adults can both inhibit and facilitate the process. The findings have important implications for multiple stakeholders, including 4-H Extension services, community organizations, and academic institutions.