Protective Assets

Pursuing athletics, learning a musical skill and developing positive relationships with adult mentors can reduce a youth's risk of substance abuse and violence, say USU researchers. Young people with these so-called "protective assets" are less likely to get involved in fights and gang-related activities, or to receive school suspensions and court referrals.

 

For more information, contact Rich West, executive director, Center for the School of the Future and professor, Special Education and Rehabilitation Department, College of Education and Human Services, Utah State University, 435-797-1994; rich.west@usu.edu.