Very instructive for this Initiative was the review of the psychological literature on Children’s developing capacities to participate, and on the benefits of participation. This work establishes that providing opportunities for young people to engage in action research and other forms of exploration and of self-expression, has positive effects for them and their communities. Benefits include the development of their self-concept and identity, their autonomy, social competence and social responsibility, community identity and development, and political self-determination.

Click here to download [PDF]

Title:  Child and Youth Development Through Community Participation: A Review of Psychological Literature on the Benefits of Community Participation and Children’s Developing Capacities to Participate

Author(s): Roger Hart, Colette Daiute, Selim Iltus, David Kritt, Michaela Rome, Kim Sabo

Publication Date: 1996

Publisher: California Wellness Foundation