Theories of Youth Development

Theories of youth development explain how young people grow, learn, and change over time. They suggest that development is influenced by factors like family, peers, education, and personal experiences. Some theories emphasize stages, like moving from childhood to adolescence, with specific tasks at each phase. Others focus on influences such as social, emotional, or cognitive growth. These frameworks help us understand the challenges youth face and how best to support their positive development into healthy, capable adults. They highlight that development is a dynamic process shaped by internal traits and external environments.