Keynote Speaker: Dr. Bonne Leadbeater, Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Victoria Context Matters! Supporting Positive Youth Development While adolescence is frequently seen as a time for the development of autonomy and independence, ironically perhaps, this is not achieved alone. The long term consequences of either opportunities or the behavioral risk and challenges of adolescence depend on the contexts that surround these experiences. The research Dr. Leadbeater has conducted for the past 20 years with her students explores transitions to young adulthood and the influences of parents, peers, and non parent adults on adolescent and young adult outcomes. Whether the issue is learning to drive, what to do after high school or how to cope with depression, drug use, or an unexpected pregnancy, contexts matter. Youth matter.
