Be a BuilderBuilding developmental assets for a better life

What is an ?

• An asset is a useful or valuable quality, person, or thing; an advantage or resource.

So what do assets do for us?

• The search institute (a fancy company that does a lot of research) has identified building blocks – known as developmental assets. These assets help young people grow and develop to be the best people they can be. They also help young individuals stay out of trouble.

External vs. Internal Assets

External Assets

Support

Constructive use of time

Boundaries & Expectations

Empowerment

External vs. Internal Assets

Internal Assets

Commitment to Learning

Positive Identity

Social Competencies

Positive Values

External

Support• Family support• Positive family communication• Other adult relationships• Caring neighborhood• Caring school climate• Parent involvement in schooling

Empowerment• Community values youth• Youth as resources• Service to others• safety

Boundaries and Expectations• Family boundaries• School boundaries• Neighborhood boundaries• Adult role models• Positive peer influence• High expectations

Constructive use of Time• Creative activities• Youth programs• Religious community• Time at home

Internal

Commitment to Learning• Achievement motivation• School engagement• Homework• Bonding to school• Reading for pleasure

Positive Values• Caring• Equality and social justice • Integrity• Honesty• Responsibility• Restraint

Social Competencies• Planning and decision making• Interpersonal competence• Cultural competence• Resistance skills• Peaceful conflict resolution

Positive Identity• Personal power• Self esteem• Sense of purpose• Positive view of personal future

Lets see how may assets we currently have

Each of these assets is like a puzzle piece…the more we have the stronger our foundation. The stronger our foundation the easier it will be for us to deal with difficult situations in our life. Allowing us to be happier and live more successful lives.

Missing puzzle pieces (assets) weaken our foundation and make our lives more difficult. We are more likely to get into trouble and have less protection against negative things.