Figure 1.

Youth-engagement framework based on a framework for an evaluation of the Statewide Youth Movement Against Tobacco Use, a multi-state youth advocacy program in tobacco control (6). Abbreviation: COI, San Diego County Childhood Obesity Initiative.

Group Structure (Evaluation Activities)

— Decision-making process

— Relationships to existing programs

— Opportunities for involvement

— Support, training & resources available

— Incentives

Predisposing Youth Characteristics (Evaluation Activities) (Ecological Context)

— Demographics

— Reasons for participating

— History of similar involvement

— Readiness to advocate

Individual Change (Evaluation Activities)

— Change in youth's psychological empowerment

— Intentions to remain involved

— Changes in youths' own active living/healthy eating behaviors

Ultimate Outcome

— Youth becomes a social change agent/citizen advocate

Adult Involvement (Evaluation Activities)

— COI training

— Adult characteristics

— Parental support

— Funding agency support (eg, COI) and acknowledgment

Collective Participation (Evaluation Activities) (Ecological Context)

— Level and intensity of participation

— Duration of participation

— Roles played within group

Community Change (Evaluation Activities)

— Change in community awareness and opinions

— Change in policymaker receptivity

— Increased number and type of active living/healthy eating related activities

— Increased active living/healthy eating opportunities

Ultimate Outcome

— Policy change

— Reductions in obesity-related disease risk

Group Climate (Evaluation Activities)

— Group resiliency

— Group cohesion

— Group members' shared beliefs

— Group's belief in positive outcome

Group Change (Evaluation Activities)

— Activities are completed as planned

— Activities are effective in achieving outcomes

— Resources are mobilized

— Members are maintained and satisfied

Ultimate Outcome

— Group sustains itself

— Policy change