by Khalil Osiris

As a leader in youth development, I have seen first-hand the powerful and transformative effect of the Positive Change Model (PCM) in helping young people discover their potential and unleash their personal power.

At St. Johns Youth Academy, a secure residential treatment facility for adolescent males between the ages of 14 and 18, I led an exercise that asked each young man to share “one word that best describes you”. Despite their challenging circumstances, every single one of them spoke with confidence about themselves and their future – a testament to the PCM’s effectiveness in such environments.

The PCM is more than just encouraging words; it is a practical tool that helps individuals better understand their core values, become cognizant of how different situations may challenge those values, recognize how choices and behaviors can influence outcomes, and identify any cognitive distortions they may have adopted over time.

Further, this model emphasizes developing sustainable practices for managing stress or difficult emotions, such as relaxation techniques like deep breathing or positive coping skills like talking with friends or engaging in constructive activities like reading or playing music. By establishing healthy habits within our program setting, individuals are able to take these skills with them as they transition back into society – ultimately allowing them to make informed decisions moving forward.

No matter what life throws at us there is always an opportunity to learn from it through the PCM; it not only gives hope but also creates pathways towards a brighter future. If you know someone who could benefit from this model as a means of achieving positive change then please do explore this option – it could make all the difference!

I want to hear from YOU!

1. How can the Positive Change Model help you discover your potential?

2. What are some practical tools for understanding your core values?

3. How can you manage stress and difficult emotions using the Positive Change Model?