Research has shown that youth and their communities benefit from civics education, with its aim to prepare citizens for democracy. However, civics education for adolescents in the United States is not equitable, and determining how to best measure aspects of civic development in younger adolescents is a challenge. In this qualitative study, we…

Twenty-five (N = 25) early adolescents were asked to describe their conceptions of the good life and a good person. Analysis of their responses revealed that sixth and ninth graders see care and support from friends and family as requisite components of the good life. Having material comforts, being happy, and achieving personal goals were also…

This study measures the nationwide participation rates of girls and boys in exercise and organized team sports. The central focus is on how the intersections among families, schools and communities are related to children's involvement and interest in athletics and physical activity. Some of the personal and social benefits associated with…