Youth creativity in arts based interventions guided by the 7Cs model of positive youth development

Abstract This study introduces a critical interpretive systematic review that examines how arts-based interventions contribute to adolescent and youth development when interpreted through the expanded 7Cs model of Positive Youth Development (PYD). The analysis reinterprets findings from diverse creative interventions that were not originally designed within a PYD framework, revealing their natural alignment with PYD principles. Results show that arts-based initiatives foster psychosocial empowerment and holistic growth through creative engagement, primarily enhancing Creativity, Confidence, Connection, Character and Caring. Participation, co-creation, and the presence of safe, supportive environments emerged as key mechanisms of change and success. The study proposes the 7Cs PYD model as a valuable analytical tool for evaluating arts-based programs and emphasizes the systematic integration of such approaches into education, community practice, and youth development policy.