Looking upstream to improve the wellbeing of youth who are alienated from mainstream education in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Although most young people navigate adolescence without difficulty, some experience serious mental health concerns. These concerns impact educational engagement; left untreated, the impact can be profound and lasting. Marginalised youth are particularly vulnerable. Notably, young people who have been alienated from mainstream schooling are significantly more likely (compared to mainstream students) to experience serious emotional challenges and engage in risky or antisocial behaviour. School exclusion also isolates young people from important developmental opportunities. There have been numerous calls for better mental health support for young people in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), particularly for those within underserved populations. Positive Youth Development (PYD) programmes are intrinsically engaging settings that promote thriving through a holistic strengths-based approach.