Promoting Positive Youth Development with Adolescent Boys in UK Schools: A Theory-Driven Evaluation of the “Becoming a Man” Programme

Youth violence, including gender-based violence, is a major public health issue in the UK, yet evidence on effective interventions in the UK remains limited. Becoming a Man (BAM) is a two-year school-based positive youth development programme for adolescent boys, developed in Chicago, US, where two RCTs found reduced violent crime arrests and improved academic engagement. This study evaluated BAM's potential in the UK using a theory-driven design (no comparison group). 97 boys aged 12-14 years (66% Black/Black British) in three London schools enrolled in BAM. Data sources included: implementation records (recruitment, attendance, adherence, quality, youth socio-demographics); school data (attendance, exclusions, attainment); 36 qualitative interviews (11 scholars, 14 parents, 3 school staff, 3 BAM counsellors (2 interviews each), 1 each from delivery organisation and intervention developer); and a counsellor focus group. Interviews focused on implementation, outcomes and BAM contribution to outcomes. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analysed using framework analysis. Case studies of 11 scholars explored what worked, for whom, under what circumstances and why. Implementation outcomes were mixed. Attendance targets were met but those for group size, reach and curriculum progression were not. Case study scholars who engaged deeply with BAM's values demonstrated improved self-control and decision-making, although external influences also affected their development. Concerns about negative labelling were mitigated through balanced recruitment. Limited adverse effects on academic attainment were reported. BAM has potential in the UK but requires further adaptation, implementation support and evaluation (including impact on gender norms).