Question

cp 16

1. Discuss the 5 Cs model of positive youth development of Lerner et al. (2009), and identify the 5 Cs.

2. Briefly explain why there is no singular accepted definition of positive youth development.

3. Briefly discuss why experts believe youth development programs should be aimed at prevention.

4. Briefly discuss the description by Larson et al. (2011) of the benefits of a youth development program.

Answer 1

Below are the 5 Cs model of positive youth development of Lerner et al. (2009)

Competence – A positive view of one’s abilities in specific areas like academic, social, cognitive, vocational etc. Social competence includes interpersonal skills like conflict resolution. Cognitive competence comprises of decision-making abilities. Academic competence is the test scores one achieves at school, overall grades, regular attendance etc. And Vocational competence is one’s work habits and career choices and general entrepreneurship.

Confidence – An internal sense of positive self-worth, self-efficacy and one’s overall self-regard.

Connection – Maintaining positive bonds with other people and institutions in society. This is reflected and seen in the exchanges that occur between any two parties like individual and school, family, friends and the larger community, there is a contribution from both parties to making and maintaining of the relationship.

Character – Adherence on a personal level to all of the rules and societal regulations in the community. Respecting and valuing the cultural norms. Inculcating a moral and integrity-based approach and following ethical conducts of behaviour.

Caring – Being kind, showing sympathy and acting in empathetic ways towards others.