by Visions, Inc. and Camino Associates, Inc.

Prevention is not the answer when we talk about youth development. Youth Development theory asserts that there are five necessary markers for success.

Problem Free is not fully prepared.

Preventing high-risk behaviors, even if achieved, is not the same as helping young people prepare for the future. Preperation requires an equal commitment to helping youth understand life's challenges and responsibilities and to teaching youth the necessary skills for success.

Preventing problems does not necessarily promote development.

It is usually not enough to fully prepare. A young person's not getting pregnant, using drug, or joining a gang does not mean that the person has the skills, knowledge, or personal attributes to make it.

Youth development is the best strategy for problem prevention.

Striving for more positive goals that promote development often gives youth the skills and motivation they need to adopt healthy life styles.

Youth development is the best strategy for achievement.

Striving for more positive goals that promote development often gives youth the skills and motivation they need to achieve milestones, such as high school graduation and employment.

The goal is not to fix youth but to develop them.

Adults often work from a deficit or problem prevention mode. The result is that young people get clearer messages about what they should not do, think, or become than what they should do.