Contemporary Models of Youth Development and Problem Prevention: Toward an Integration of Terms, Concepts, and Models

Abstract

Over the past several years, increased interest in preventing youth problems and promoting healthy youth development has led youth and family practitioners, policy makers, and researchers to develop a wide range of approaches based on various theoretical frameworks. Although the growth in guiding frameworks has led to more complex models and a greater diversity in the options available to scholars and practitioners, the lack of an integrative conceptual scheme and consistent terminology has led to some confusion in the field. Here, we provide an overview of three approaches to youth development and problem prevention, critically examine their strengths and weaknesses, and offer some elaborations to help clarify, extend, and integrate the models. We conclude by discussing some general implications for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers.

Positive youth development programs for mental health promotion in Indian youth: an underutilized pathway

“…27 Also, focusing on the problems of young people poses the risks of stigmatization and undermining their motivation and engagement. 20 Preventing diseases or behavioural problems does not imply that positive development is actualized. 28 Also, actions aimed at preventing risk behaviours is not same as promoting positive youth development and preventive programs and policies do not necessarily prepare youth to contribute to the society.…”

“…20 It comprises of two key hypotheses, the first pertains to what brings out positive youth development and second is about what constitutes positive youth development. 21 The first hypothesis states that the alignment of strengths in youth with resources for healthy development available in their context can enhance positive functioning.…”

From Theory to Practice: A Critical Review of Positive Youth Development Program Frameworks

“…This review focused on PYD frameworks that aligned with the stated purposes and goals of PYD programs: (a) promoting positive youth development by focusing on the situations and processes that facilitate healthy development (Small & Memmo, 2004); (b) helping youth reach full potential (Roth, Brooks-Gunn, Murray, & Foster, 1998); (c) providing support and opportunities for success (Gambone, Klem, & Connell, 2002); (d) building community capacity (Benson, 1997;Connell, Gambone, & Smith, 1998;Eccles & Gootman, 2002); approaching youth as assets to be developed rather than problems to be fixed (Pittman & Irby, 1996;Pittman & Zeldin, 1995).…”

“…Subsequent public and private investments in research resulted in exponential growth in published positive youth development research and the development of nascent theoretical frameworks (Small & Memmo, 2004). Building on these developments, youth organizations began professional development efforts to educate and prepare professional staff and identify competencies for youth workers (e.g., Stone & Beiber, 1997).…”

Beyond Sustainability: A New Conceptual Model

“…Thus, by definition, a protective factor may only occur in the presence of risk. Protective processes are environmental conditions which occur outside of the control of the individual (Small & Memmo, 2004). These factors include family structure, social support, and community opportunities (Fraser, et al, 2004).…”