About
Search Institute is a nonprofit organization with a history spanning over sixty years, dedicated to the promotion of positive youth development and the advancement of equity through a combination of research and practical solutions. The organization has a rich tradition of collaboration with various partners, focusing on conducting and applying research that fosters positive youth development and champions equity. The tools developed by Search Institute are designed to establish connections that facilitate the learning and growth of all young individuals.
Search Institute's overarching goal is to embrace a multitude of perspectives, experiences, learning methods, and sources of wisdom. Over the past decade, their research and practice have gravitated towards the developmental relationships framework, which identifies five key elements and twenty actions that strengthen relationships for young individuals. The organization operates as a bridge between theoretical concepts and practical applications, actively sharing tools and resources with partners such as schools, organizations, and practitioners, with the aim of fostering and reinforcing developmental relationships.
Approach
The foundation of Search Institute's approach lies at the intersection of theory, research, and practice, where the most profound learning occurs. Their research has been widely adopted worldwide to bolster the developmental relationships of young people, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives. Search Institute employs a diverse range of research methods and rigorous approaches within its research design, with a specific focus on understanding and promoting positive youth development within the context of foundational relationships and equity.
Central to the organization's effectiveness is its formidable research team, comprised of developmental psychologists, applied research scientists, fellows, scholars, and seasoned educators. This team possesses a wealth of experience and expertise in areas such as developmental theory, positive youth development, and prevention science. Recognizing the imperative to seamlessly integrate research into practical applications, they actively forge innovative partnerships, develop tools, and create resources that are highly regarded and implemented on a global scale.
