Developmental Assets Framework
The developmental assets framework identifies 40 research-based, positive experiences and qualities that influence young people’s development, helping them become caring, responsible, and productive adults.
Developmental Assets Framework
For more than 30 years, Search Institute has studied Developmental Assets® in the lives of millions of young people across the United States and around the world. Research consistently shows that young people from all backgrounds do better when they have a strong foundation of these strengths in their lives.
What are Developmental Assets®?
Grounded in extensive research in youth development, resiliency, and prevention, Developmental Assets® are the 40 positive supports and strengths that young people need to succeed. Half of the assets focus on the relationships and opportunities they need in their families, schools, and communities – External Assets. The remaining assets focus on the social-emotional strengths, values, and commitments that are nurtured within young people – Internal Assets.
When young people have more assets they are:
- More likely to thrive now and in the future
- Less likely to engage in a wide range of high-risk behaviors
- More likely to be resilient in the face of challenges
Note: Communities around the world have created many additional translations of the Developmental Assets® Framework for use with the children, youth, and families they serve, including: Acholi, Arabic, Armenian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Farsi, French, Hmong, Japanese, Khmer, Nuer, Russian, Somali, Urdu, and Vietnamese.
If you'd like one of these translations or to offer your own translation of the framework, please send us an email us at info@searchinstitute.org.
