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The Scientific World Journal logoLink to The Scientific World Journal
. 2011 Feb 14;11:353–361. doi: 10.1100/tsw.2011.5

Do Adolescent Developmental Issues Disappear Overnight? Reflections about Holistic Development in University Students

Daniel T L Shek 1,2,3,4,*, Keri K Wong 5
PMCID: PMC5720117  PMID: 21336451

Abstract

Adolescent developmental issues, such as mental health problems, substance abuse, and egocentric behavior, of university students are examined. This conceptual review generally shows that although there are related issues among university students deserving greater attention, there is a general lack of systematic prevention or positive youth development programs adopting the principle of universal prevention. In contrast to the abundance of universal adolescent prevention and positive youth development programs specifically designed for high school students, similar programs are grossly lacking in the university educational context. This paper highlights the factors contributing to such negligence in university education and the possible strategies that can be adopted to help university students develop in a holistic manner.

Keywords: mental health, developmental issues, positive youth development, prevention programs, university students


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