Positive Youth Development
Young people do best when they experience strong, positive relationships in all parts of their lives.
Research has found that young people who experience strong developmental relationships across different parts of their lives are more likely to show signs of positive development in many areas, including:
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Increased academic motivation
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Increased social-emotional growth and learning
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Increased sense of personal responsibility
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Reduced engagement in a variety of high-risk behaviors
HOW TO
BUILD
The Developmental
Assets of...
Components of a Positive Relationship
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You feel safe and comfortable;
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You are listened to;
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Your opinions are valued;
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You are supported in what you want to do in life;
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You and your family are respected;
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You are treated as an equal;
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You are accepted for who you are;
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You are trusted;
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You enjoy doing activities together.
What Are DEVELOPMENTAL Assets?
Developmental Assets are 40 opportunities, skills, relationships, values and self-perceptions that all young people need to succeed. The Developmental Asset Framework was created by the Search Institute, a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities. The Framework is a research-based tool that encourages all individuals to make a difference.
Supporting environments where assets can be built is one of the most important things we can do in the healthy development of young people.
Here are a few principles that will help guide you in your efforts -
Everyone can build assets. Building assets isn't just about great families or schools or neighbourhoods. It requires consistent messages across a community.
All young people need assets. While it is crucial to pay special attention to youth who struggle - economically, emotionally, or otherwise - nearly all young people need more assets than they have.
Relationships are key. Strong relationships between adults and young people, young people and their peers, and teenagers and children are central to asset building.
Asset building is an ongoing process. Building assets starts when a child is born and continues through high school and beyond.
Consistent messages are important. It is important for families, schools, communities, the media, and others to give all young people consistent and similar messages about what is important and what is expected of them.
Intentional repetition is important. Assets must be continually reinforced across the years and in all areas of a young person's life.
