The Interest-Driven Pursuits of 15 Year Olds: “Sparks” and Their Association With Caring Relationships and Developmental Outcomes

摘要: In this study, we examined the characteristics of adolescents’ deep interests or “sparks,” role relationships in supporting development sparks, and whether having a spark was associated with positive developmental outcomes. Participants included 1,860 15 years olds from across United States who participated national Teen Voice survey (56% European American, N = 1,860). Profile-centered analyses suggested that sparks are characterized by intensity feelings, immersion, utility. The strongest were pursuits requiring more interpersonal engagement, such as sports, drama dance, participating politics, serving others. Spark related to better social, academic, affective Additionally, youth stronger reported encouragement, financial support, transportation activities parents, mentors, extended-family, neighbors, school-based adults, peers. Benefits engage...