Finding their Way: Perceptions of risk, resilience, and positive youth development among adolescents and young adults from public housing neighborhoods

Shandra S. Forrest-Bank, Nicole Nicotera, Elizabeth Anthony, Jeffrey M. Jenson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

Knowledge of the risk and protective factors associated with problem behavior and the application of principles consistent with positive youth development have led to significant advances in understanding why some young people develop behavioral and social problems while others display resilience in the face of adversity. Qualitative research methods were used to identify principles of risk, protection, resilience, and positive youth development in a sample of 17 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-20) who participated in afterschool programs located in 4 urban public housing neighborhoods. Template analysis in conjunction with constant comparative analysis revealed 7 themes identified as challenges, resources that support development, coping, caring and compassion, aspirations and well-being, competence and confidence, and wisdom and advice. The discussion considers how these themes are congruent with key constructs of risk, protection, resilience, and positive youth development. Implications for promoting positive behavior in adolescents and young adults are noted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)147-158
Number of pages12
JournalChildren and Youth Services Review
Volume55
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1 2015

Keywords

  • Adolescents
  • Positive youth development
  • Qualitative methodology
  • Resilience
  • Risk and protective factors
  • Young adults

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Developmental and Educational Psychology
  • Education
  • Sociology and Political Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Finding their Way: Perceptions of risk, resilience, and positive youth development among adolescents and young adults from public housing neighborhoods'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this