Positive youth development (PYD) and adolescent development : reflection on related research findings and programs

There are growing research findings showing that positive youth development (PYD) attributes (such as resilience) is negatively linked to adolescent risk behavior (such as substance abuse). In this chapter, studies on the relationships between PYD attributes and adolescent risk behavior are reviewed. First, research studies on the relationship between PYD and problem adolescent sexual behavior such as having early sex are reviewed. Second, the link between PYD and adolescent self-harm as well as suicidal behavior is examined. Third, Chinese research on the link between PYD and adolescent problem behavior with life satisfaction as a mediator is reviewed. Gaps in the existing research and possible future research directions are discussed. Besides, PYD programs designed to reduce adolescent risk behavior (particularly risky sexual behavior, self-harm, and suicidal behavior) and promote positive development are examined. Problems on the existing PYD programs and future directions for the development of PYD programs are discussed.