Katherine M. Ross, Helyn Kim, P. Tolan
May 1, 2019
Citations
1
Influential Citations
20
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology
Abstract
Abstract Empirical evidence supports the importance of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) skills in school and life success. However, no study to date has documented growth trajectories of these critical skills during adolescence. This study examines longitudinal growth trajectories of self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, and relationship skills (creating relationships and relationship quality) using data from the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development, a diverse sample of over 1500 United States youth beginning at age 10 and following them to age 18. Findings suggest that during adolescence (1) SEL component skills follow differing, often nonlinear trajectories and (2) these trajectories differ for males and females. This tracking can inform a foundational understanding of adolescent social and emotional development and highlights the need for more attention to normative growth patterns and variation by skill to inform future studies and interventions.