Equitable Relationships Increase Developmental Assets

Posted on August 17, 2023

Everyone's an Asset Builder!

Developmental relationships help young people forge identities, learn new skills, and strengthen the roots of their success, so they can withstand the storms of life. Family members, teachers, school administrators, coaches, program leaders, and others can help young people figure out who they are and who they can become. As humans, we are inherently social beings, wired to connect with others. This connection goes beyond mere interaction; it plays a vital role in shaping our emotional well-being and resilience.

Developing Equitable Relationships with Young People 

Research with millions of young people shows the power of people from all walks of life committing to do what they can to support all young people’s success. Equitable Adult/Youth Relationships are essential to Social Emotioanl Learning and development of young people on the inevitable road to adulthood. As educators, parents, caregivers, and youth professionals we genuinely care about the success of young people. That’s why we do what you do!

While the research is encouraging it does highlight the reality that caring about youth development is not enough. If you want a fruit tree to be fruitful , the roots will need to be strong enough to grow and thrive. You will need to ensure that the tree gets the nutrients needed for it to cultivate and bare fruit“ In the same way your fruit tree need to be nurtured to grow healthy and strong, young people grow and thrive when they have positive, intentional relationships with the adults in their life.

What is the Developmental Relationships Framework?

The Developmental Relationships framework is an asset-based approach to connecting with young people. It emphasizes the importance of positive and meaningful connections between individuals, particularly in the context of youth development. This framework is rooted in research that highlights the critical role relationships play in shaping young people's growth, well-being, and success.

The Developmental Relationships framework was developed by the Search Institute , a nonprofit organization focused on advancing positive youth development. The framework outlines five key elements that contribute to the quality of developmental relationships:

1. Express Care: This element involves showing young people that they are valued and appreciated. Care can be expressed through acts of kindness, active listening, and genuine concern for their well-being.
   
2. Challenge Growth: Challenging growth means pushing young individuals to step out of their comfort zones and encouraging them to set and achieve goals. This element involves fostering a sense of competence and mastery.
   
3. Provide Support: Providing support entails being there for young people in times of need, offering guidance, and helping them navigate challenges. It's about being a reliable source of assistance and encouragement.
   
4. Share Power: Sharing power involves giving young people a voice in decisions that affect them. It's about treating them with respect, involving them in discussions, and allowing them to contribute their ideas and perspectives.
   
5. Expand Possibilities: Expanding possibilities means helping young individuals envision a positive future. It's about exposing them to new experiences, introducing them to diverse perspectives, and encouraging them to explore different paths.

The Developmental Relationships framework recognizes that these five elements are interconnected and work together to create a holistic and supportive environment for youth. When these elements are present in relationships, young people are more likely to develop a sense of agency, resilience, and a positive self-concept. These relationships also contribute to the overall Social-Emotional Learning and development of children on the road to adulthood.

Educators, parents, mentors, and community members can apply the principles of the Developmental Relationships framework to enhance their interactions with young people. By focusing on building strong and positive relationships, individuals can play a significant role in helping youth thrive and reach their full potential.

Asset Development Through Shared Experiences

Shared experiences have a unique way of fostering Emotional Resilience in young people. Engaging in activities and pursuits with others, @GiddyGlove PA'RC reinforces the understanding that Adults and Youth who engage in shared activities tend to build stronger bonds and develop a sense of camaraderie that comes from using a Developmental Framework to Adult/ Youth Relationships. 

More Than Just a Game

One remarkable way to forge connections and enhance resilience among youth is through play. Game play is a useful tool to help young people learn. Many games, while designed to be fun, many are also resourceful tools for teaching academic and social lessons. The game of chess is one of those games. The benefits of chess extend far beyond the confines of the 64 squares on the board. This ancient game has been proven to boost critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and concentration. More importantly, Chess Play can bring individuals together, promoting social interaction and healthy competition. Enga ging in chess tournaments or casual games with peers fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie, mitigating the risk of loneliness.

For further insights into the transformative effects of chess, check out our related blog post: How Can Chess Promote Social-Emotional Learning? 

We Have To Keep In Mind

Relationships hold the key to healthy youth development. Meaningful connections, shared experiences, and engaging activities @GiddyGlove PA'RC contribute significantly to fostering a sense of belonging that empower our youth to thrive emotionally and mentally. If you're looking to provide opportunities to help youth develop these vital connections and skills, consider Giddy Glove Developmental PAR'C . We're committed to creating an environment where young individuals can flourish, build friendships, and increase their resilience against loneliness.

Ready to make a positive change for your child? Email us [email protected]. Let's work together to create a brighter, more connected future for the youth.