Key Principles

PYD exists in dynamic environments that build upon the strengths of and recognize risk behaviors in adolescents. These environments include systems of support, such as peer or social networks, school, family, and community. The contexts are all a part of an ecological framework that PYD programs incorporate into their programming and that adolescents continually interact with.

When connecting youth to positive experiences, programs should include the following principles:

• PYD is an intentional process. It is about being proactive to promote protective factors in young people.
• PYD complements efforts to prevent risky behaviors and attitudes in youth and supports efforts that work to address negative behaviors.
• PYD acknowledges and further develops (or strengthens) youth assets. All youth have the capacity for positive growth and development.
• PYD enables youth to thrive and flourish and prepares them for a healthy, happy, and safe adulthood.
• PYD involves youth as active agents. Youth are valued and encouraged to participate in design, delivery, and evaluation of the services. Adults and youth work in partnership.
• PYD instills leadership qualities in youth, but youth are not required to lead. Youth can attend, actively participate, contribute, and/or lead through PYD activities.
• PYD involves civic involvement and civic engagement; youth contribute to their schools and broader communities through service.
• PYD involves and engages every element of the community — schools, homes, community members, and others. Young people, family members, and community partners are valued through this process. PYD is an investment that the community makes in young people. Youth and adults work together to frame the solutions. Learn more about engaging youth as active participants and partners.

Resources

America’s Children: Key National Indicators of Well-Being, 2016
This report from the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics includes indicators in seven domains, including family and social environment; economic circumstances; health care; physical environment and safety; education; and health. Indicators of youth health include engagement in tobacco, alcohol, and drug use; behaviors that contribute to unintentional injuries and violence; and inadequate physical activity.

America’s Young Adults: Special Issue, 2014 (PDF, 100 pages)
This report from the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics provides data on young adults ages 18-24, focusing on their demographic characteristics, living situations, and overall wellbeing. The data come from several nationally representative, federally sponsored surveys.

National Clearinghouse on Families & Youth
The National Clearinghouse on Families & Youth (NCFY) is a free information service for communities, organizations, and individuals interested in developing new and effective strategies for supporting young people and their families. NCFY was established by the Family and Youth Services Bureau (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) to link individuals and groups interested in youth issues with the resources they need to better serve young people, families, and communities. NCFY’s searchable publications database contains a wealth of information about PYD.