NCJ Number
188010
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper provides an overview of the seminar on "Successful Youth in High-Risk Environments," which examined recent research into factors that contribute to, or detract from, positive youth development and discussed the implications of this research for youth development programs and policies.
Abstract
In particular, the seminar examined issues of health risk behaviors and school success. Although the seminar discussion touched on a broad range of topics -- from the importance of family relationships and social networks to the impact of neighborhoods on youth and families to the influences of urban schools -- four of the most compelling findings from the research dominated the discussion and led the group to consensus on several conclusions. One significant research finding is that there are striking similarities between families, regardless of class, race, and socioeconomic background. Another research finding is that despite the similarities, parents' access to resources and social supports varies significantly across neighborhoods. A third significant finding is that immigrant youth engage in fewer health risk behaviors. A fourth finding is that societal attitudes toward poor, urban youth negatively impact their development. Seminar participants agreed on the need to continue to build the knowledge base and create political will around youth development; to improve education as a first step toward more meaningful change in the lives of disadvantaged urban youth; and to view all youth as assets. 6 references