Promoting Positive Youth Development

Abstract

This book presents the results of the longitudinal 4-H Study of youth development. The volume discusses how self-regulation and contextual resources (e.g., strong relationships with parents, peers, and the community) can be fostered in young people to contribute to optimal functioning throughout life. Each chapter examines a particular aspect of youth thriving, and offers findings on the role of positive development in a variety of outcomes. Contributors introduce a contemporary model of positive development for diverse youth, provide examples of effective youth development programs, and suggest applications for informing the next generation of policies and practices. Among the featured topics: The regulation of emotion in adolescence; School engagement, academic achievement, and positive youth development; Peer relationships and positive youth development, and; Identity development in adolescence and the implications for youth policy and practice. Researchers in developmental psychology as well as practitioners in educational or youth development programs or policies will gain from Promoting Positive Youth Development a new appreciation of the central role of young people's strengths, and initiatives to build effective youth programs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)