"Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still." –Chinese proverb

A new research program has looked into factors that help adolescents successfully negotiate adolescent youth risk factors while others fail. Some positive factors were found to be:

· Positive adult role models in adolescents' lives

· Positive communication within the family

· Time with parents and family

· Supportive school environment

· Empathy and sensitivity towards others.

The study showed that when these factors are around the adolescent can avoid risky behaviors that affect their health. Adults who work with youth can identify the youth's assets and the family assets which provide a base to work from in developing the protection adolescents need to avoid risky health behaviors.

For more information call family life educator Sherry Rocha at the University of Illinois Extension office 877-6042.