Building Social Capital Today

In youth programming, developmental relationships between youth and adults expand possibilities, share power, express care, and provide support. These high quality relationships are directly tied to the conditions needed for people to thrive, yet for nearly a decade the data has demonstrated a downward trend in youth identifying supportive adults in their lives. While the newly released Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey data shows potential shifts in these data points, there is still work to be done. Investing in social capital offers is a great place to start.

Youth thrive when they can access deep networks of meaningful relationships. From material and financial support, to engagement opportunities, to useful information about norms and processes, social capital refers to the resources that come from connections with other people. Increasing social capital has been linked to positive outcomes in the realms of mental and physical health, education, and employment for young people.

Originally released in spring of 2023, this research brief highlights the three types of social capital and the benefits to young people as well as programs. We welcome you to share with your colleagues and reach out to the MYAN team for additional conversations about how to embed social capital into work with young people.