40 Developmental Assets
Preparing Young People for Success in
College, Career, and Citizenship
Developmental Assets - Who needs them? Why are they important?
The
Developmental Assets are 40 research-based, positive qualities that
influence young people’s development, helping them become become caring,
responsible, and productive adults.
Over
time, studies of more than 4 million young people consistently show
that the more assets that young people have, the less likely they are to
engage in a wide range of high-risk behaviors and the more likely they
are to thrive. Research shows that youth with the most assets are least
likely to engage in four different patterns of high-risk behavior,
including problem alcohol use, violence, illicit drug use, and sexual
activity. When they have higher levels of assets, they are more likely
to do well in school, be civically engaged, and value diversity.
Parents are encouraged to review the list of Developmental Assets. Two lists are available: