Abstract

Introduction: Positive Youth Development relates to youth's assets instead of their weaknesses, promoting positive developmental outcomes and a successful transition into adulthood. Method: Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was implemented to investigate the mediating role of Connection on the association between Positive Identity and Purpose in Life in Chilean youth. 261 participants completed a cross-sectional online survey through Qualtrics that included the following scales: The Developmental Assets Profile, the 5Cs short-form questionnaire of PYD, and The Abbreviated Purpose in Life Scale. Results: The findings indicated positive and significative correlations across all the studied variables and a good model fit for the hypothesised simple mediation, in which Connection partially mediated the effect of Positive Identity on young Chileans' Purpose in Life. Conclusions: The findings highlight the role of Positive Identity and Connection to Purpose in Life in Chilean emerging adults and are broadly consistent with previous local and international PYD inquiries.