Exploring the contextual factors influencing young persons aged 14 to 17 years occupational choice to participate in volunteering

Background: The impacts that a positive volunteering experience can have on youth have been known for some time. The growing evidence of the physical and mental health benefits of volunteering for youth and communities/societies to which the contributions have been made have been highlighted. However, the qualitative research literature available to support the influential factors of volunteering youth is deficient. Objectives: This research paper examined the existing literature on youth aged 14 to 17 years and contextual factors that shaped their choice to engage in volunteering. Methods: To improve the quality of the research, papers were assessed for eligibility and quality using the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) in conjunction with a critical review tool from McMaster University. A literature review was completed followed by a meta-synthesis. An appropriate question was shaped for the synthesis and relevant articles were reviewed. A qualitative methodology was utilised to integrate, evaluate and interpret the findings. Results: Four themes were identified across six research papers as the contextual factors influencing the occupational choice of young persons’ to volunteer. The results were examined by the use of meta-synthesis. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that youth in mental health services benefit from the inclusion of a range of activities in occupational therapy. In this regard, volunteering opportunities should assist youth exploring voluntary roles that match their interests and abilities for successful treatment.