A Qualitative Investigation Into the Motivation of Volunteers in the Youth Sector

Murphy, Aaron (2023) A Qualitative Investigation Into the Motivation of Volunteers in the Youth Sector. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Background and Aims: There is a vast amount of quantitative research into what motivates volunteers but very few of these studies focus on the youth sector and fewer again are qualitative in methodology. This study aims to explore the subjective motivation and drive of volunteers in the youth sector in order the gain a greater understanding of why they volunteer.

Method: Participants in this study were recruited using purposive sampling (N=7). All participants in this study were active volunteers in the gluais youth leadership training program. The age range of participants was 23-45 years old and the length of time volunteering varied from 1-19 years (M=7.28). All semi-structured interviews took place via Microsoft Teams and were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s method for thematic analysis.

Results: Four key themes were identified in the study: 1. Values, 2. Commitment to Organisation, 3. Personal Development, 4. Barriers/Challenges.

Conclusion: Motivations of volunteers in the youth sector can vary but through a greater understanding of these motivators we can improve retention rates and recruitment processes for youth organisations that rely on volunteers for day-to-day operations.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Supervisors:	Name Email Cullen, Brendan UNSPECIFIED
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Motivation; Youth; Volunteers; Thematic Analysis; Gluais
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BJ Ethics > Conduct of life > Altruism H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > Charity Organisations H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman > Children
Divisions:	School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Tamara Malone
Date Deposited:	02 Jan 2024 17:52
Last Modified:	02 Jan 2024 17:52
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/6902

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