YOUTH VIOLENCE AND GAMBLING PROJECT: A POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT APPROACH

Project Summary for 2002-JN-FX-K002

Many current approaches to youth violence prevention are guided by a risk resilience model that emphasizes the reduction of empirically derived risk factors. From this risk-resilience perspective, interventions take into account the determinative roles of violence exposure, alcohol use, access to weapons, poverty, limited adult supervision, and the absence of job opportunities. In contrast, an asset-based model for violence prevention promotes the development of personal and social resources that buffer against the influence of common risk factors. The Fuller Theological Seminary approach to youth violence prevention uses strengths of both these models. The proposed project features interlocking elements, conducted over a three year timetable, designed to advance scientific knowledge and increase utilization of "best practices" of violence prevention for at-risk children and adolescents. To accomplish these objectives, the applicant will conduct three related program aspects: (1) a two-phased plan of original research for advancing scientific knowledge about personal assets found among exemplary resilient youth, as well as new risk factors, such as the recent rise of youth gambling; (2) a program evaluation component that will identify "best practices" within agencies serving youth for prevention of violence, and obstacles to implementing these practices; and (3) professional conferences for disseminating project findings among those who work for violence prevention with at-risk youth.

nca/ncf