Getting involved in structured extra curricular activities can be a very positive means for at-risk youth to develop resiliency. A study performed in 1997 showed that at-risk youth are more concerned with goals based on attaining a social image than non-at-risk students; however, they are also more concerned with freedom-autonomy based goals than their peers. While they want to maintain a positive social image, they also want to set their own rules. By becoming a part of a team with a shared goal, an at-risk student can build connections with their peers, thus improving their social image. In many cases, the feeling of belonging that comes from being part of a team may neutralize their autonomy-freedom based goals.  The aforementioned study also showed that teenagers with behavioural problems can be very interested in sporting activities. These students’ athletic goals provide opportunities for them to realign their goals with those of their peers.

It will be impossible to convince many at-risk youth to join a team or a club, but the sense of belonging that may develop from doing so could have extremely positive effects. Not every club will be beneficial of course, and structure is a crucial factor of this approach’s effectiveness. If the activity is structured carefully, opportunities for the students to become disinterested will be minimized.