circle of courage

The Circle of Courage is a holistic model of positive youth development that blends traditional Indigenous child-rearing philosophies with modern resilience research. Represented by a medicine wheel, it establishes that children need four universal growth needs to thrive: Belonging, Mastery, Independence, and Generosity. [1, 2, 3]

The framework was developed by Dr. Martin Brokenleg, Dr. Larry Brendtro, and Dr. Steve Van Bockern. The four core quadrants emphasize the following principles: [1]

• Belonging: The universal need to feel loved, accepted, and part of a trusting community.

• Mastery: The inborn drive to learn, cope with the world, and develop competence through accomplishment.

• Independence: The empowerment to make decisions, solve problems, and take personal responsibility.

• Generosity: The opportunity to show concern for others, teaching children that they have a purpose and can contribute to their community. [1, 2, 3, 4]

When these four areas are in balance, it results in healthy, resilient, and emotionally grounded individuals. Many educators, youth workers, and indigenous programs use this model across North America (including in the Vancouver/Lower Mainland region) to guide teaching methods and behavioral interventions