The contribution to adolescent well‐being made by nonfamily adults: An examination of developmental assets as contexts and processes

• DOI: 10.1002/jcop.20106
• Publication Date: 2006-05-31T22:56:23Z
• Authors: Peter C. Scales; Peter L. Benson; Marc Mannes
• Keywords: Thriving; Longitudinal Study; Positive Youth Development; Sample (material); Longitudinal sample; Well-Being

Abstract The contribution of nonfamily adults to young people's well‐being was explored using both a cross‐sectional national sample 614 12‐ 17‐yearolds and longitudinal 370 students followed from 6th–8th grades through 10th–12th grades. Both variable‐ person‐centered analyses were employed. Young involvement in volunteering, youth programs, religious organizations hypothesized increase the frequency as well quality their relationships with adults. Greater community related (a) greater qualitatively different kinds engagement adults; (b) higher levels positive developmental processes support, empowerment, boundary setting; (c) lower risk behaviors; (d) thriving. results suggest utility development theory, research, applications for predicting enhancing concurrent longer‐term well‐being. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.