Spiritual Life: Summary and Next Steps

When it comes to positive youth development, you may not immediately think of spirituality being a major concern. Research shows, however, that kids who express spirituality are more likely to feel a strong sense of purpose and have a positive view of their personal future. Faith communities also offer many beneficial opportunities that kids can engage in and allow them to build strong connections with other adults. Encourage your child to express her or his spirituality by whatever means she or he prefers, and know that you are doing a service that will benefit your child throughout the rest of her or his life.

Books Available from Search Institute

• Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers — This book offers a fascinating look into the spiritual lives of today’s American teens and answers many common questions about teen spirituality with stories and research results.

Other Useful Web Sites

• Center for Spiritual Development — The Center’s Web site contains many useful and interesting research facts on spirituality as a facet of positive youth development.