Positive Youth Development

As youth navigate through adolescence and transition into adulthood, they experience a multitude of changes related to emotional, cognitive, physical, sexual, and reproductive development. During adolescence, youth are vulnerable to influences that shape their attitudes and guide their behaviors.¹ Positive Youth Development (PYD) is an intentional, prosocial approach based on a body of research that suggests there are certain protective factors and/or positive influences that can help young people succeed and reduce the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.  

Youth participation provides perspectives and input that can improve plans, especially with regard to the needs and issues most relevant to adolescence. When programs targeting youth do not involve them in the development and decision-making process, they risk developing strategies that do not work and waste valuable resources. Public Health Youth Councils (PHYCs) give young people an opportunity to exercise their voice in decisions that may directly impact them.

Research supports the value of youth involvement, not just for the youth, but for adults and organizations, too.² Professionals become more aware of the issues youth face and are better equipped to respond to them.  Organizations become more representative, diverse and inclusive. When youth and adults combine their energy, expertise, and resources in collective action, the outcome is thriving communities that work for youth, adults and families.³

Alicia Lincoln, MSW, MSPH
Administrative Program Manager

Mailing Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health 
Child and Adolescent Health
123 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Suite 1702 
Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6406

Physical Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
123 Robert S. Kerr Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK