Why MVParents Works

MVParents Is Different

Instead of being based on the anecdotal experience of “experts,” the information on MVParents comes from over 50 years of research conducted by Search Institute. Since 1958, Search Institute has taken a scientific approach to discovering what kids need to succeed. Search developed, and has confirmed through the analysis of surveys taken by more than 2.5 million kids, a list of Developmental Assets—40 common sense, positive qualities and experiences that help influence choices young people make and help them become caring, responsible adults

All of the articles and advice you’ll find on MVParents.com are based on the 40 Developmental Assets and the positive approach that this framework brings to youth development. Instead of focusing on kids’ deficits, the assets help parents, teachers, community members, and other caring adults pay attention to kids’ strengths and what they’re doing right, and not dwell on what they’re doing wrong. And positive parenting is what MVParents is all about.

The combination of the Developmental Assets and a positive approach to parenting is what makes MVParents work. If you’d like to find out more about the research that Search Institute has done, feel free to explore the other articles in this section. You can also download and get more information on several important research reports below.

Research

The following research studies contributed to the development of the information on MVParents.com:

• Building Strong Families 2004

Search Institute surveyed over 1,000 African-American and Latino/Latina parents about their challenges, perceptions, and asset-building actions, as well as the support they receive as parents. The results show that parents are trying to raise children in a complex society, too often with little or no support from their communities.
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• Building Strong Families 2002

This preliminary study preceded the 2004 study, providing information on the daily challenges that parents face and the supports that they feel would be helpful in raising their children.
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• Teen Voice 2009

A groundbreaking study on what teens need to succeed, Teen Voice 2009 measured three factors critical to the success of 15-year-olds. The study found that only 7% of teens have high levels of all three life experiences—“sparks” or passionate interests they pursue, relationships to help them pursue those deep interests, and a sense of voice or empowerment in their lives. Sponsored by Best Buy Children’s Foundation, this research shows a large gap in the support that American teens receive in their daily lives.
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• Successful Young Adult Development

Prepared for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this study establishes 8 measures of the successful development of youth, many of which are central to MVParents.
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• Grading Grown-Ups 2002

A follow-up to Grading Grown-Ups 2000, this study looks at the actions and responsibilities that both kids and adults think are important, as well as how the expectations placed on adults affect their contributions to kids’ lives. You can find many useful conversation starters on the Grading Grown-Ups 2002 page at Search Institute.
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• Grading Grown-Ups 2000

Almost 1,500 adults reported on their perceived capacity, responsibility, and motivation for contributing to the lives of young people. In addition to detailing what these adults think, the report examines how well they follow through on the actions that they say are important.
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