PYD

Positive Youth Development (PYD) is a framework and philosophy for guiding the growth of young people toward healthy, productive adulthood. Rather than treating youth as problems to be managed, PYD views young people as resources whose development is shaped by supportive relationships and opportunities. The framework emphasizes assets, strengths, and thriving across social, emotional, cognitive, and physical domains.

Core principles include an asset-based approach, ecological perspectives on development, and youth participation. A common articulation of PYD centers on the "Five Cs" of competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring; many scholars also add a sixth C, contribution to the community. Programs and policies aligned with PYD seek to provide positive relationships, structured activities, mentorship, safe environments, and opportunities for leadership and service.

Implementation occurs through schools, families, community organizations, and policy efforts that cultivate developmental assets such as supportive relationships, high expectations, autonomy, and opportunities for meaningful engagement. Outcome research associates PYD-promoting environments with improved academic achievement, healthier behaviors, social-emotional skills, and civic participation. Longitudinal studies indicate that sustained PYD experiences can reduce risk behaviors and enhance well-being when quality and cultural relevance are maintained.

Critiques note variability in definitions, measurement challenges, and the need to adapt the framework to diverse cultural contexts. Despite critiques, PYD remains influential in youth development policy and practice by foregrounding youth strengths and the role of environments in shaping positive trajectories. Related topics include positive psychology, developmental assets, and general youth development.