How is empowerment defined in a youth development context?

In a youth development context, empowerment is best understood as the process through which youth develop the skills, confidence, and opportunities to participate actively in decision-making processes. This means that they not only gain skills for participation but also influence outcomes alongside others, such as peers and adults. Empowerment focuses on fostering a sense of agency in youth, allowing them to express their opinions, take action, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and environments.

This perspective recognizes that youth are capable of contributing valuable insights and are not just passive participants. It emphasizes collaboration, respect, and shared power between youth and adults, which is crucial for their development and well-being. As such, option B aligns with the principles of youth empowerment, which seeks to engage youth as equal partners rather than as subjects of decisions made solely by adults.