Global youth perspectives on “good work” role models: a qualitative study of character strengths and behaviors

Purpose This study explored the character strengths and behaviors that adolescents worldwide ascribed to their “good work” role models. The Good Project defines “good work” as ethics, engagement, and excellence. The research extends limited cross-cultural scholarship on youth perspectives of role models in relation to future work. Design/methodology/approach The study draws on grounded theory and thematic analysis of 685 student documents from 14 schools in 11 countries participating in the Good Project's curriculum on ethical dilemmas, values, responsibility and future work. Student reflections identifying one or more “good workers” were coded across character strengths, behaviors and alignment with the Good Project's framework of excellence, ethics and engagement. Findings The study found that adolescents mostly identified family members as role models, valuing qualities like hard work, dedication and perseverance – character strengths associated with “grit.” Youth also emphasized prosocial and civic behaviors, including helping others, contributing to society, as well as excellence and engagement. Cross-cultural analysis demonstrated relatively limited variation. Originality/value The research highlights the gap between the character strengths and behaviors youth value in role models and the “21st century skills” needed for the “future of work.” The study calls for further research investigating how particular role models might influence youth development.