This article provides an overview of existing theory and research on the relations between structured youth activities and positive youth development (PYD). Theories of PYD suggest bidirectional associations between contexts of structured activities and features of PYD, including making contributions, engaging in purposeful action, and demonstrating characteristics such as competence, caring, and making connections. Current research provides limited evidence that specific aspects of activity contexts, such as supportive relationships, are related to greater PYD. Even more limited is research on the possible effects of PYD on activity contexts. The article ends with directions for future research and implications for youth programs and policy.
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Ramey et al. (2011) studied this question.
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