The Well-being and Well-becoming of Adolescents and Young Adults

Abstract

Abstract Chapter 4 focuses on the well-being and well-becoming of adolescents and young adults. The transition from adolescence to young adulthood involves biological and psychological development and maturation. This chapter explores the following domains of adolescent well-being: good health and optimum nutrition; connectedness, positive values, and contribution to society; safety and a supportive environment; learning, competence, education, skills, and employability; and agency and resilience. This chapter presents systematic review evidence and cost-effectiveness evidence where relevant, for example, relating to school-based physical activity interventions and mental health support interventions. Promoting healthy behaviour during this life-course stage can establish a pattern of healthy lifestyle behaviours that individuals carry into adulthood. This chapter also considers the costs of late intervention in children and young people. The chapter concludes with curiosity questions for the reader to consider.