Youth Development Ideology: What's Your Sign? (Reflection)

Last week, we were given the option to talk about which approach to Youth Development we identify with most. Upon completing a youth development “quiz”, I most identified with Positive Youth Development. Included in the choices were Critical Youth Development and Risk, Resiliency, and Prevention. In the Positive Youth Development model, their focus relies on fostering strengths and positive growth. Positive experiences, relationships, and environments are crucial in the cultivation of positive youth development. These three factors make the perfect formula in working towards positive change. I can only hope that one day I will be able to work in an organization that fosters these same ideas. I stand by the belief that learning best takes place when youth are motivated to actively engage in experiences that allow them to create their own knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live. Additionally, I believe that youth should work towards a positive identity in order to help support them in both academic and social success for the future.