45. Community-Based Participatory Research As Positive Youth Development For Adolescents: Findings From The Atlanta Youth Research Coalition Project

African-American (AA) adolescents experience multiple health disparities impacting numerous health outcomes (e.g., HIV, reproductive, asthma, obesity), but they are often only superficially, if at all, engaged by adolescent health researchers in the research process. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) can meaningfully engage adolescents in youth-driven research. Through engagement in adolescent health research, CBPR may also function as a positive youth development (PYD) program and enhance PYD outcomes (e.g., Confidence, Competence, Contribution). Meaningful participation in the research process may also enhance trust in medical research. The Atlanta Youth Research Coalition (AYRC) was a 2-year CBPR project for AA adolescents in Atlanta, GA. We examined the extent to which AYRC participation influenced Youth Board (YB) members PYD outcomes and increased their trust in medical research. The YB consisted of 12 AA adolescents recruited through high schools and youth organizations (mean age: 15.40, sd=0.97). Most were in 10th (n=4) or 11th grade (n=5). YB members participated in quantitative surveys (pre- and post-project) and qualitative interviews (post-project). Semi-structured interviews sought to evaluate YB experiences with the program. Interviews were recorded and detailed notes were taken on each of the recordings. NVivo software was used for coding (deductive and inductive codes) and thematic analysis; intercoder agreement was reached. The survey included the 12-item Trust in Medical Researchers Scale (possible score=0-48; higher scores indicate greater trust). Quantitative data was analyzed in SPSS using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests. Survey results revealed a significant increase in trust in medical researchers among the YB from pre- to post-project (pre mean=28.63, sd=6.10; post mean=32.36, sd=7.15, t=-2.471, df=10, p=.033). From the interviews, seven primary themes emerged across participants that suggest PYD outcomes increased because of participation. Connection: The majority of the YB expressed that they gained confidence talking to adults, conducting research, and expressing their opinions and beliefs. Competence: YB members expressed that they learned new skills in research, teamwork, and communication throughout the project. Character: Many YB members expressed that their participation in AYRC informed how they will practice ethical research and treat others in their daily lives outside of AYRC. Caring: YB members empathized with adolescents who were not receiving adequate sex education (the focus of their community needs assessment), and realized this not only affect individuals, but also the community at large. Contribution: YB members expressed participation in this program was rewarding because it allowed them to affect change in their community. PYD through CBPR: Many YB members were excited to be involved in the research process and felt empowered by their role as key stakeholders. Our findings suggest that AYRC had a strong, positive impact on the youth involved. The YB experienced overall greater trust in medical research and positive changes in PYD after participating in AYRC. Findings highlight how meaningfully engaging youth in research can strengthen developmental assets in youth participants as they contribute to improving adolescent health.