The fluidity of success over time: Understanding the experience of success through the voices of young people

Theoretical conceptualization of youth’s success has been based on linear timing and pathways of development, encompassing normative markers of success. These conceptualizations often do not consider the complex, fluid, and changing nature of youth’s lives over time. This article goes beyond normative markers of success by drawing on insights from the intersectionality, individualization, and youth transition literatures. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 26 male youth from a community-based organization. Youth discussed success as subjective, non-linear, and temporal, hinting at the fluidity of success. Valuing subjective, non-linear, and temporal experiences of success has implications for youth, policy, and practice.