The 40 Assets

Developmental Assets ® were first identified in 1990 by Search Institute  ® of Minneapolis, a non-profit, non-affiliated, research organization, which conducted informational surveys on youth, ages 12 to 18. From this survey data, Search Institute specifically identified 40 different Developmental Assets that were commonly present in the lives of the most successful and emotionally healthy youth.

 “The usual definition of assets is “property or resources”.  We chose this term because the things we identified – building blocks for human development – act like assets in a young person’s life.  They increase in value over time.  They provide a sense of security.  They are resources upon which a child can draw again and again.  They help young people to make wise decisions, choose positive paths, and grow up competent, caring and responsible.  And they’re cumulative, meaning that the more assets a young person has, the better.” (What Kids Need to Succeed, Peter L. Benson, Ph.D., Judy Galbraith, M.A., and Pamela Espeland:  Search Institute Resources)

Throughout the country, Search Institute has joined with groups such as PACCT to encourage communities to mobilize and build 
Developmental Assets in our youth.

 
The 40 Developmental Assets® may be reproduced for educational, noncommercial uses only. Copyright © 1997, 2006 Search Institute, 615 First Avenue NE, Suite 125, Minneapolis, MN 55413; 800-888-7828; www.search-institute.org. All Rights Reserved.
The following are registered trademarks of Search Institute: Search Institute ®  and Developmental Assets ®