Integrating Positive Youth Development and Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Approaches Across the Child Welfare and Justice Systems

This working paper explores why the child welfare and justice systems need a new emphasis on positive youth development (PYD) approaches that incorporate racial equity and inclusion, why it is important to focus on young adults specifically, and why these systems are particularly important sectors that offer positive, developmentally appropriate supports. This paper also introduces “STRENGTH,” a conceptual model structured around eight principles drawn from PYD frameworks. Programs and communities can use this model to guide and collaborate in supporting adolescents and young adults in both child welfare and justice systems.