The inventory was given to youth to discover that the difference between troubled teens and those leading healthy, productive, positive lives was strongly affected by the presence of what we call developmental assets. They increase in value over time. They provide a sense of security, and they are sources upon which a child can draw again and again. They are cumulative, meaning that the more of them the young person has, the better. Family Support - Family life provides high levels of love and support.
Young person receives support from three or more non-parent adults.
Caring neighborhood - Young person experiences caring neighbors. Caring school climate - School provides a caring, encouraging environment. Young people are given useful roles in the community. Young person serves in the community one hour or more per week. Safety - Young person feels safe at home, school, and in the neighborhood.