Abstract

Background: The Positive Youth Development (PYD) framework posits that young people possess both inner and outer resources to thrive, and that, therefore, they can develop constructive behaviours, express their talents, and identify their strengths. The present study examines the relationship between the dimensions of the Positive Youth Development (PYD), the Developmental Assets (DA), and Purpose in Life (PIL) among Peruvian university students. In addition, the research informs on gender differences, and tests the predictive role of the 5Cs of the PYD and key Developmental Assets on Purpose in Life (as the criterion variable), in the studied population. Methods: 1026 Peruvian university students were approached on a paper-based questionnaire by convenience sampling; 55.6% (570) were female, and 44.4% (456) were male. The questionnaires used in the research were the Positive Youth Development Short-Form (PYD-SF), the Developmental Assets Profile (DAP), and the abbreviated version of the Purpose in Life Scale for Emerging Adults (PILEA). The students ranged in age from 17 to 30 (M = 19.6, SD = 2.1). Results: All the tested PYD dimensions correlated positively at p <.01, regardless of whether they belonged to the PYD or the DA framework. Male students scored significantly higher than females on competence, confidence, positive identity, and purpose in life. In contrast, female students scored higher than men on care and commitment to learning. Multiple regression analysis revealed that competence, confidence, support, commitment to learning, and positive identity significantly and directly predicted purpose in life, explaining 49.5% of it. Conclusions: This study provides empirical evidence on the effect of PYD dimensions on Peruvian university students’ purpose in life. The 5Cs and key developmental assets had a significant and positive impact on purpose in life, potentially having long-lasting effects on the overall health of Peruvian students. © The Author(s) 2025.