FSYD evolved when the Annie E. Casey Foundation encouraged experts to examine innovative, successful positive youth development programmes to document whether and how families were engaged. This led to an initial 'practice' framework, which the Center for Applied Research and Technical Assistance (CARTA) refocused to emphasise the importance of motivational factors that drive programmatic activities and outcomes.

CARTA then developed a theory of action framework to illustrate how programmes can include family-centered activities in their work by integrating the FSYD mindset (see diagram below). Ideally, programmes will develop comprehensive approaches that target youth and their families, allowing them both to:

For more information about FSYD, contact:

Center for Applied Research and Technical Assistance

1800 North Charles Street, Suite 902

Baltimore, MD 21201

United States