What are the 40 Developmental Assets?

By assets we don’t mean cars, houses or other things worth money. The developmental assets are the building blocks needed for raising a healthy child. Relationships are at the center of the assets, and help to create a healthy community for all. Simply put, the assets are the good things you need in your life.

Researchers have identified 40 Developmental Assets that help children and youth to do well. They include things like:

• A loving, supportive family
• A caring neighborhood
• Helping other people
• A desire to do well in school
• Reading for pleasure
• Values such as being caring, honest, and responsible
• Social skills such as being able to say no to negative peer pressure and having good friendship skills

Why are the assets important?

Research has shown that the assets make a big difference in the lives of children and teens. More than 2 million youth in thousands of communities across the U.S. have been surveyed. Time after time, the surveys show that the more assets kids have, the less likely they are to drink and smoke, to have problems in school, or become depressed. The more assets kids have, the more likely they are to stay healthy, help others, plan ahead, and do well in school.

Can anything be done to increase the assets young people experience?

The answer is yes! Adults and youth -- in big and small ways -- can help increase assets in lives of young people every day. Check out some simple ways you can start building assets today!

How can I learn more about the assets?
Visit the resources and training page for details on upcoming trainings and for links to Web sites with additional resources.