Positive youth development research emphasizes the importance of meeting four basic human needs: belonging, competence, independence, and generosity. When these needs are met, young people are better prepared to be successful and contributing members of society. Understanding these core needs is crucial for fostering balanced growth during youth.
Basic Needs for Balanced Growth in Youth
Youth have individual needs, interests, desires, values, strengths, and weaknesses, all of which influence their behavior. These needs must be addressed to promote balanced development. According to 4h.okstate.edu, here are the fundamental needs for balanced growth in youth:
Desire for Belonging
This need helps young people connect with others. A significant part of their self-worth is shaped by how others perceive them. Belonging to a group or community provides them with the reassurance that they are valued.
Independence
The desire for independence can be challenging for parents and volunteers. However, it is an essential part of natural growth. This need for independence often manifests in impatience with adult guidance and a preference for making their own decisions.
Achievements
Young people need to feel that their efforts are valued and appreciated. They seek recognition for their accomplishments. It is essential to ensure that their projects match their capabilities, as the rate of achievement varies among individuals. Achievements should benefit both themselves and others, and they crave new experiences to expand their horizons.
Love
Affection and love are vital for personal growth. Knowing that they are loved and needed despite their imperfections helps young people develop emotionally and socially.
Four Areas of Growth in Youth
Physical Development
This involves the growth of the body, including the development of both large and small muscles. Generally, children gain better control over large muscles (e.g., running and jumping) before they master fine motor skills (e.g., writing and handling small objects). Physical development also includes the bodily changes that occur during puberty.
Cognitive Development
Cognitive development refers to the growth of the mind and thinking processes. This includes skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, as well as learning how to think critically and communicate effectively. It is a crucial component of mental development.
Social Development
Social development looks at how children interact with their peers and adults. It focuses on their ability to engage with their environment, such as family, school, and neighborhood, and how they navigate social relationships.
Emotional Development
This focuses on emotions and how young people perceive themselves and others. Unlike social development, which examines how a child interacts with others, emotional development is concerned with a child’s relationship with themselves and their emotional awareness.
Balanced Growth in Youth: Expert Opinion
Dr. Farah Al-Har, a mental health specialist, spoke to nadormagazine about the importance of balanced growth in youth, highlighting several needs that parents should address to ensure healthy development.
Dr. Al-Har explains:
"The youth phase requires certain fundamental needs to ensure balanced and healthy growth across psychological, social, and emotional levels. These needs are divided into emotional and psychological needs, including the need for emotional stability, such as feeling secure, loved, and supported, especially by family and friends."
Key needs for balanced development include:
Self-Confidence
Parents should nurture their children's self-esteem by encouraging them and acknowledging their achievements. This helps build their sense of self-worth and self-efficacy.
Emotional Regulation
Teaching young people how to manage emotions such as stress, anxiety, and frustration in healthy ways is essential for their emotional well-being.
Belongingness
Feeling a sense of belonging through positive relationships and community involvement is critical. This provides a sense of security, both physically and emotionally, especially within the family.
Social Needs
Developing teamwork skills, learning how to collaborate with others, and building healthy relationships are crucial. Additionally, youth need to be aware of their social identity and understand their role in society. Their social roles should align with human values and respect for cultural differences.
Independence and Responsibility
Young people need to develop the ability to make their own decisions responsibly, with parental guidance to avoid mistakes. It’s important to foster independence while maintaining an understanding of their responsibilities.
Spiritual Needs
Encouraging youth to reflect on their personal values, find a sense of purpose, and engage in activities that promote emotional stability and psychological satisfaction is crucial for their spiritual well-being.
Financial and Practical Skills
Training youth on financial responsibility, budgeting, and saving wisely is essential. They should also be guided on career planning, discovering their strengths, and making informed career choices. Cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and innovative thinking is also valuable.
Physical Well-being
Teaching youth the importance of healthy eating, regular sleep, and exercise, while avoiding harmful habits like smoking, is essential. It’s also important to educate them about sexual health and create an environment where open, responsible discussions can take place.
Conclusion: The Importance of a Supportive Environment
Dr. Al-Har concludes:
"Balanced growth requires a supportive environment, purposeful education, and integrated care that addresses the diverse needs of youth. This ensures that young people are equipped to build a bright future and face challenges with confidence and awareness."
Creating an environment where youth can grow physically, emotionally, socially, and mentally is essential for helping them become successful, well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
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