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Building on Strengths: A New Framework for Positive Youth Development Program Practice

By K. Seymour, published in 2017 in the Queensland Review.

This article introduces a new strengths-based approach to youth development program practice developed in Queensland, Australia. This approach is encapsulated in a good practice framework, its six principles, their underlying indicators, and examples of action. The framework is a wholly new synthesis of academic, youth, and practitioner expertise, and demonstrates the complex ecological nature of youth programs and the bi-directional links between the diversity of staff and youth needs, and contributions made within the program environment. I introduce the framework by discussing each of the six principles, which focus on the themes of learning and development; leadership and decision making; an inclusive ethos; community service; partnerships and networking; and ethical promotion. Taken together, the principles presented here embody an innovative, comprehensive, and comprehensible framework for volunteer and paid youth practitioners, service providers, and youth studies scholars.

Building on Strengths: A New Framework for Positive Youth Development Program Practice

By K. Seymour, published in 2017 in the Queensland Review.

This article introduces a new strengths-based approach to youth development program practice developed in Queensland, Australia. This approach is encapsulated in a good practice framework, its six principles, their underlying indicators, and examples of action. The framework is a wholly new synthesis of academic, youth, and practitioner expertise, and demonstrates the complex ecological nature of youth programs and the bi-directional links between the diversity of staff and youth needs, and contributions made within the program environment. I introduce the framework by discussing each of the six principles, which focus on the themes of learning and development; leadership and decision making; an inclusive ethos; community service; partnerships and networking; and ethical promotion. Taken together, the principles presented here embody an innovative, comprehensive, and comprehensible framework for volunteer and paid youth practitioners, service providers, and youth studies scholars.

Building on Strengths: A New Framework for Positive Youth Development Program Practice

August 26, 2025 • YouthREX

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