Their world is more complex and the impact of ignorance, errors in judgment, or lack of preparation is more severe. Young people suffer from economic and social stresses, which are often compounded by alterations in family structure. Development of fundamental life skills in a low-risk environment, where a young person can make a mistake and learn from it, is a critical need. These skills are strongly and positively linked to avoiding major risk factors for young people. A sense of future worth and personal values are insulators that help prevent school dropout, drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and similar problems for young people.
Social skills are vital to self-concept and positive interactions with others.
They are learned, practical skills. Self-respect is the foundation of positive attitudes toward others, the environment, and productive use of time. Wise use of leisure time is essential to coping with the risks and stresses of today's world. Decision making and analysis of alternatives are also part of coping with a world having a deluge of information and a dearth of analytical thinking. Thus, development of coping skills is essential to becoming well-rounded citizens.