Bradley Wright, Life Purpose Lab

#43: Adolescent's Pathways into Purpose (Mini-Lesson)

4 snips
Apr 26, 2021
Adolescence is a turbulent journey of self-discovery filled with options. Research reveals three pathways where youth find purpose: through random meaningful activities, awareness leading to action, and positive peer influence. For instance, a job in childcare can evolve into a deep commitment, while concerns about issues like gun violence can inspire activism. The power of friends showing purpose can also guide adolescents toward meaningful pursuits. Understanding these pathways can help us nurture purpose in young lives.
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ANECDOTE

Parenting Sparks Interest In Purpose

  • Bradley Wright survived parenting adolescents who were searching for identity and direction.
  • He used this personal context to introduce research on how teens find purpose.
INSIGHT

Activity-First Pathway

  • Kendall Cotton Bronk's research found three main pathways for adolescents to develop purpose.
  • One pathway is where adolescents start with an activity and purpose grows from that involvement.
ANECDOTE

Childcare Can Grow Into Purpose

  • Wright gives a concrete example of the activity-first route: teens doing childcare for pay.
  • Over time they may find the work meaningful and deepen their commitment.
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