What are Developmental Assets?
The Developmental Assets are a set of 40 positive qualities, skills, experiences, and opportunities that help influence choices young people make. Based on more than four decades of research on youth development, these assets paint a picture of the positive building blocks young people need to grow into competent, capable, caring and healthy people.
Why do Assets Matter?
Studies have shown that when young people have more assets, they are more likely to be leaders, live healthier lives, and do well in school. The Search Institute research indicates that ideally a young person that has 31 assets or more is 97% less likely to use drugs, become involved in violence, or participate in underage drinking. In short, the more assets a young person has, the more likely he or she is to succeed in many aspects of life.