The 5Cs of positive youth development: their impact on symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional distress in Chilean adolescents

TL;DR

This study explores how positive youth development factors like confidence and connection reduce mental health symptoms in Chilean adolescents.

Contribution

The study identifies Confidence and Connection as key factors in reducing depression, anxiety, and stress in Chilean adolescents.

Findings

Confidence and Connection significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Findings highlight the importance of these factors in mental health interventions for adolescents in Latin America.

Abstract

Effective approaches to addressing mental health challenges faced by adolescents require a deep understanding of the factors contributing to optimal development, well-being, and prosperity. From the perspective of Positive Youth Development (PYD), this study proposes to examine the relationship between the 5Cs of PYD (Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring) and symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional distress among Chilean adolescents. A quantitative, cross-sectional, non-experimental study was conducted with 425 adolescents (ages 12 to 19, M = 14.95, SD = 1.81) from three Chilean cities: Arica (23%), Alto Hospicio (32%), and Iquique (46%). Data analysis included the use of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results indicate that two of the 5Cs, Confidence and Connection, have a significant negative direct effect on the four evaluated criterion indicators. These findings contribute to the literature on positive youth development in Latin America and underscore the importance of fostering confidence and connection in interventions aimed at promoting the mental health of adolescents in Chile and in similar contexts.

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