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Adolescents of color experiencing chronic environmental stress are at an increased risk for adverse mental health concerns and problems behaviors. Concepts drawn from the Positive Youth Development (PYD) framework identify internal and external assets that suggest positive outcomes for youth and promote resilience. The present study investigated the relationship between the Five Cs and Sixth C models of PYD (represented by youth competence, confidence, connection, caring, character, and contribution) and the likelihood of anxiety/depressive symptoms and behaviors in conflict with the law among urban youth of color residing in high-stress communities. Data were collected during a longitudinal cross-age peermentoring program from a sample of 151 adolescents of color (M = 16). Results indicated that, when combined, youth competence, confidence, connection, caring, character, and contribution predicted decreases in behaviors in conflict with the law over time. Internal PYD dimensions were significantly associated with decreased behaviors in conflict with the law over time, whereas external PYD dimensions were significantly associated with decreased anxiety and depressive symptoms over time. In addition, gender and levels of chronic environmental stress were found to moderate the relationship between PYD and psychosocial outcomes. The findings suggest the value of the PYD framework for understanding psychosocial outcomes for urban youth of color. Limitations of the present study and implications for future research are discussed. Impact StatementThis article seeks to advance the existing research on Positive Youth Development (PYD) by examining the relationship between PYD and mental health for adolescents of color experiencing high levels of stress. Authors found that higher levels of PYD predicted decreases in behaviors in conflict with the law over time for all youth and decreases in anxiety/depressive symptoms for cisgender females. The study suggests the value of the assets outlined by PYD framework for youth of color residing in high-stress communities.

There is a dearth of research that examines COVID‐19‐related stress among multiply marginalised individuals who are in the developmental phase of emerging adulthood. This qualitative study investigated how the intersection of emerging adulthood, sexual and gender minority (SGM) identity, and migrant status were reflected in the experiences of SGM individuals ( n = 37; ages 20–25 years old) who migrated to various parts of the United States in the last 5 years. Data were collected online using semi‐structured interviews. Thematic analysis revealed that participants' developmental processes (e.g., identity exploration, building financial independence) were shaped by pandemic‐related stressors, especially unemployment and financial instability. Participants who were able to maintain employment did so but at the risk of their health and safety. Findings also showed that participants experienced feelings of anxiety and depression due to social isolation, but online communication played an important role in combatting loneliness. Findings highlight the potential for trauma‐informed and intersectional approaches to practice with SGM emerging adult migrants and expanded health services and temporary entitlement programs to mitigate the pandemic's effects on this population's psychosocial and financial well‐being.