Adolescents who have a sense of purpose are happier and healthier. How can we help?
UCLA Newsroom November 2, 2023
Filed in: Health & Wellbeing
Helping young people develop a sense of purpose in life could build their resilience and prevent declines in mental health. A new report from the National Scientific Council on Adolescence (NSCA) outlines why having sense of purpose is a key aspect of healthy adolescent development and describes what adults can do to help.
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For students who are having a difficult time excelling in school, building trust with teachers and caring adults can help them cultivate confidence and a sense of belonging in academic settings. In a new KQED article, Co-Executive Director Andrew Fuligni explains that “adolescents are building an identity, which involves discovering things that you are good at,” and “many students mistakenly believe that academic ability is fixed rather than a developed skill.” By cultivating a growth culture in the classroom and providing positive feedback and affirmation, adults can help students cement a sense of belonging that can benefit their academic success and overall wellbeing.
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Co-Executive Director Adriana Galván answers questions from the Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS) about her life and research prior to her upcoming keynote lecture at the 2025 CNS Meeting in Boston. “I hope that the public can gain a more positive perspective about adolescents. This period of life helps propel us into adulthood and the willingness to explore the world is a key attribute of adolescence that helps us learn through trial and error,” says Galván.
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