2025: Empowering the Future through Education, Diversity, and Hope

Fostering Mattering: A Framework for Building Connection Among Youth and Within Systems

Location

Hemmingson Ballroom

Start Date

15-4-2025 11:15 AM

End Date

15-4-2025 12:15 AM

Description

Mattering is a multidimensional concept that reflects individuals’ perceptions that they are important to and valued by others—both in interpersonal relationships and within larger systems (Dixon & Tucker, 2018; Watson et al., 2022). More than just a sense of belonging, mattering plays a critical role in adolescent development, with higher levels of perceived mattering linked to decreased mental health concerns, increased academic engagement, and greater motivation (Watson et al., 2021). When intentionally cultivated, mattering can act as a protective factor, especially for youth navigating complex social, academic, and personal challenges. This presentation reviews current research on mattering and offers practical strategies for fostering it at both the individual and systems levels.

Comments

Poster Session A

Publication Date

2025

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Apr 15th, 11:15 AM Apr 15th, 12:15 AM

Fostering Mattering: A Framework for Building Connection Among Youth and Within Systems

Hemmingson Ballroom

Mattering is a multidimensional concept that reflects individuals’ perceptions that they are important to and valued by others—both in interpersonal relationships and within larger systems (Dixon & Tucker, 2018; Watson et al., 2022). More than just a sense of belonging, mattering plays a critical role in adolescent development, with higher levels of perceived mattering linked to decreased mental health concerns, increased academic engagement, and greater motivation (Watson et al., 2021). When intentionally cultivated, mattering can act as a protective factor, especially for youth navigating complex social, academic, and personal challenges. This presentation reviews current research on mattering and offers practical strategies for fostering it at both the individual and systems levels.