Elections as Opportunities for Positive Adolescent Development
A new resource from the National Scientific Council on Adolescence that offers ways to support positive development for young people during and after elections
Elections as Opportunities for Positive Adolescent Development
Elections are culturally and historically significant events that can have lasting impacts on all of us. For high-school-aged youth, even if they are not yet old enough to vote, the high stakes, uncertainty, and strong emotions surrounding national elections can offer unique opportunities for growth and self-reflection.
Regardless of the outcome of an election, civic engagement can support key developmental needs of the adolescent years, including the need to seek purpose and meaning through contribution, to develop values and identity, and to explore the world by taking risks. This note from the National Scientific Council on Adolescence offers ways that adults can support positive development for young people during and after elections, by promoting:
- Meaningful contexts to explore sense of purpose and identity
- Opportunities to regulate emotions and manage uncertainty
- New ways to learn and exercise agency
- Chances to connect with family, peers, and broader community
Online Panel Discussion
In this online discussion, NSCA Co-Directors Jennifer Pfeifer and Anthony Burrow speak with Professor of Social Welfare Laura Wray-Lake about the research-based ways that adults can support adolescents after this year’s election and discuss how youth can meet some of their core developmental needs through civic engagement.
