Beyond prevention: promoting healthy youth development in primary care

Am J Public Health. 2012 Jun;102 Suppl 3(Suppl 3):S317-21. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2011.300559.

Abstract

Training primary care providers to incorporate a youth development approach during clinical encounters with young people represents an opportunity to integrate public health into primary care practice. We recommend that primary care providers shift their approach with adolescents from focusing on risks and problems to building strengths and assets. Focusing on strengths rather than problems can improve health by fostering resilience and enhancing protective factors among adolescents. A strength-based approach involves intentionally assessing and reinforcing adolescents' competencies, passions, and talents, as well as collaborating with others to strengthen protective networks of support for young people. Training programs should incorporate interactive strategies that allow clinicians to practice skills and provide tools clinicians can implement in their practice settings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Medicine / education*
  • Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / methods*
  • Female
  • Health Promotion*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Preventive Medicine / education*
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Public Health Practice*