Connectedness within Social Contexts: The Relation to Adolescent Health

Abstract

International studies have shown that the more developmental assets adolescents possess, the greater their likelihood of engaging in health-enhancing practices and the lesser their likelihood of engaging in practices that put health at risk. Logistic regressions were conducted on data from the 2000-2001 National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY) for 12- to 15-year-old Canadian youth to examine which of five assets accounts for the most variance in positive health outcomes and participation in risky health behaviours. Connectedness within social contexts, particularly to family and school, was associated with several self-reported positive health outcomes and behaviours (excellent or very good health, high self-worth, and less alcohol, tobacco and marijuana use). Connectedness among peers was associated with better self-assessed health and higher self-worth but also with more use of alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. A comprehensive approach to healthy youth development that emphasizes and increases positive relationships in these contexts may facilitate the transition of Canadian youth into healthy adulthood.