Attitudes of 4-H participants about 4-H competitive events

The study reported here sought to determine attitudes about 4-H competitive events as perceived by 4-H participants. A total of 182 4-H participants responded to a two-section survey that contained 29 statements and program and demographic information. Overall, 4-H participants perceived that 4-H competitions was very valuable to them in terms of teaching responsibility, building self-confidence and self-worth, and preparing them to face challenges in a competitive world. Participants disagreed that 4-H competitions promote aggressive behaviors, cheating, and unethical practices and inhibit teamwork. Significant relationships existed between program and demographic characteristics and perceived attitude about 4-H competitions.