Sponsored by the Aroostook Substance Abuse Prevention Collaborative
For many youth talking about religion can be a very private and sensitive subject. They may fear ridicule or rejection of peers should they discuss their spiritual beliefs. Yet researchers at Search Institute have found that young people who are involved in a faith community, Asset No. 19 of the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets, benefit in three distinct ways. First, religious institutions are among the few remaining intergenerational communities to which youth have access. They are a place where multiple generations gather and to some degree share a common perspective and shared values.
Second, congregations are community structures that are unafraid to articulate their values and have expectations for their participants around those values. It is very important that families choose a congregation that emphasizes what their family values are as youth are very likely to internalize those values and make decisions based on them.
According to Search Institute there is a growing body of scientific literature which shows that participation in faith communities enhances caring for others, social skills, and helps to reduce multiple forms of risk-taking behaviors, particularly among the most vulnerable young people.
Finally, congregations offer structured activities for children and teens ranging from weekly religious education to informal youth groups to service projects and mission trips. These experiences, if engaged meaningfully, have the potential to build positive relationships, show youth that their community values them and promote social competencies.
It is easy to see that churches, mosques, parishes, synagogues, temples, and other communities of faith are an invaluable resource for today’s youth. What is not commonly known is that when Search Institute’s framework for Developmental Assets is incorporated into the actions and words of a congregation, it can become a vibrant intergenerational community that meets youth’s developmental needs for support, empowerment, boundaries and expectations, structure, competency, and positive identity. As the number of developmental assets increase in a young person’s life, the more open they are to engaging deeply and meaningfully. Congregations are vital teammates in nurturing healthy youth.
When youth feel connected, involved and empowered by their faith community not only does their participation increase but their values, and view of the world around them changes. It is the inclusion of Developmental Assets in the outstanding work already being done by caring youth leaders in faith communities that will keep youth coming back. Youth are looking for positive adult role models, opportunities to contribute and serve…..what better place than your community congregation.
This article was brought to you by Aroostook Substance Abuse Prevention. For more information about ASAP and 40 Developmental Assets contact Allison Heidorn, Developmental Asset coordinator at 540-6772 or visit www.asapcoalition.com