What is an at-risk youth?

At-risk youth is a term that gets used a lot...when we train at-risk kids in conflict resolution, we have to be aware of certain emotional and developmental characterists they share:

1. Devalued-self: Ongoing experience with violence and/or neglect leaves child with a devalued sense of selfThe child believes others will eventually reject him/her, based on personal experience. Before being rejected, child will reject adult first to avoid getting hurt.

2. Self-efficacy – one’s belief about his/her own ability too learn new things. At-risk youth are not confident in his/her own ability to learn. Therefore, it is safer for them to “pretend” not being interested to avoid looking like a fool.

3. Delayed gratification is the ability to work toward a goal and wait for its rewards. At-risk youth have a history of anger and frustration, which lowers their ability to be patient and work toward a goal. Constant genuine praise is a MUST!

4. Concrete Learning: Violence, neglect, frustration and anger delay a child’s ability to think in an abstract manner. At-risk youth need concrete examples in order to learn – lots of activities and role plays, instead of lectures!

Andrea Palmisano
Youth Programs Coordinator