Only a little over half of students think they're very good at planning ahead. One of the most valuable things in life is hope. As many of their elders know, hope for oneself and one's future is one of life's greatest assets. People have survived great ordeals principally on the hope that the future would be better. The more assets a young person has, the fewer the at risk behaviors.
Backbone develops quietly and out of sight.
It is fostered mostly by indirect means. The presence of the sixteen external assets are important, of course. As many as possible of them should be in place. Having adults around them who are enthusiastic, concerned about others, interested in education, and socially skilled provides the models. Here are some examples of the kinds of opportunities teenagers need to help them develop compassion for others and a stronger sense of their own capabilities.