Issues validation: a new environmental scanning technique for family life educators

In times of declining resources, educational institutions and agencies that serve the needs of families are questioned about the value of their existence. Therefore, it is imperative that they address the most critical family issues. Issues Validation is presented as a new environmental scanning process for family life educators that combines literature reviews, professional and public opinion, and survey research in a process of identifying critical social and economical issues facing families and youth. This study discusses the findings of a three-state Issues Validation project in which samples of state residents, local advisory committees, and community professionals ranked 33 issues facing families and youth in their respective states. Similarities and differences among the samples and states are discussed. Potential uses of Issues Validation by family life educators, decision makers, and program planners are described.