40 Assets are Basic Building Blocks to Healthier Lives

The 40 developmental assets represent everyday wisdom about positive experiences and characteristics for young people. Research proved that these assets are powerful influences on adolescent behavior, both in protecting young people from many different risks and promoting positive attitudes and behaviors.

The Developmental Asset framework is categorized into two groups.

External assets are positive experiences young people receive from the world around them. These 20 assets are about supporting and empowering young people, setting boundaries and expectations, and positive and constructive use of young people's time. External assets identify important roles that families, schools, congregations, neighborhoods and youth organizations have in promoting healthy development.

The 20 internal assets identify those characteristics and behaviors that reflect positive internal growth and development of young people. These assets are about positive values and identities, social competencies and commitment to learning. The internal developmental assets help young people make thoughtful and positive choices and, in turn, be better prepared for situations in life that challenge their inner strength and confidence.

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