The role of positive youth development initiatives in building a better world

Guiding young people toward a good path in life is not always an easy task for adults. There are many pressures in the world that could cause young people to go astray, and the adults in their lives may not always be available to provide guidance and support.

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The role of positive interactions in the lives of youth is vital to ensure that they can withstand the pressures and lures of alcoholism, drugs, and negative influences. For this, they can be encouraged to join communities with a wide range of activities that allow them to turn their focus to things apart from themselves. These activities can be anything from volunteering to participating in sports or the arts.

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By motivating their sons and daughters to engage in these productive activities, parents can make a significant impact in the development of their child’s life. Studies have shown that young people who were involved in activities that promote healthy lifestyles were less likely to get over-interested in alcohol and drugs. Meanwhile, young people who participated in youth development activities were also found to be doing better in their studies.

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The adults in the lives of youth play a crucial role in their development. While they may sometimes be busy, it is important for parents to also show their willingness to communicate and sometimes compromise in order to understand what their children are going through. In many times, all that a young person needs is the knowledge that he or she has someone who is willing to listen without judgment and someone who will help in finding the motivation to do better in his or her endeavors.


Ourmilla Sharma is the treasurer of the Radha Krishna Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that seeks to instill a sense of responsibility in young people through community activities. For more information, visit this Facebook page.