Positive developmental approaches are based on the fact that young people possess resources that can be developed, nurtured and cultivated. Such interventions enable these inherent resources to yield broad behavioural, developmental and well-being benefits. Positive interventions span many sectors and target different physical and psychosocial aspects of adolescent development. The main determinants of adolescent health and well-being are largely outside the domain of the health system – for example, family and community norms, education, labour markets, economic policies, legislative and political systems, food systems and the built environment.
Working with parents, families and communities is especially important because of their great influence on adolescent behaviour and health. The education sector also provides a critically important opportunity for intensive, long-term and large-scale initiatives by professionals.
Governments can promote health education and awareness among adolescents through health and wellness education programmes in schools, in health care services and in the community. They can use media that is innovative and engaging, such as social media, online games, videos and podcasts, to reach and educate teens about health and wellness issues.
Examples of key positive developmental interventions in the health sector, the education sector and the broader community
