As noted by the author (Flom, 2006, p.90), the main limitation of the study is that it is about a "group of youth who shared commonalities of geography, enrollment in a particular treatment program, and voluntary involvement in the study. Therefore, the study's findings apply only to its participants and cannot be generalized without further research" (2006, p. 89) Also, rather than a quantitative study, this research is based on a phenomenological approach, which has both its strengths and weaknesses. The advantages include depth and detail about the topic, attempts to be nonjudgmental, and having a wide global perspective. The disadvantages consist of the environment impacting the comments; not empirical...

However, human nature being what it is, this is difficult. Flom's research is not biased, but strongly suggests that counselors need to do their job better. It would be interesting if Flom widened her research to a larger group of at-risk students in different environments and demographic populations. So many people have lost hope for such young adults. It would be wonderful if they can be encouraged to follow their aspirations.
References

Flom, B. (2006). Just Don't Shut the Door on Me. Aspirations for Kids…