The PD [Positive Deviance] approach guided by the HOPE framework creates an easy-to-follow model that honors the knowledge and skill sets of those in the organization or community to create lasting improvement and systemic change. -Laura Gallant, MSW, Research Associate at the HOPE National Resource Center
The positive deviance approach guided by the HOPE framework shows effectiveness for positive change in community-based settings
BOSTON, MA, November 7, 2025 – Researchers based at the HOPE National Resource Center published a paper, “Improving Peer Relationships Through Positive Deviance Practices and the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) Framework,” in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
The research team, in collaboration with Garden State Equality, Positive Deviance (PD) subject matter expert Curt Lindberg, and club leaders at the Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County (BGCM), used a PD approach to conduct a quality improvement (QI) project at BGCM’s Asbury Park location in New Jersey. They found the PD approach improved peer relationships among participating youth at the site. This research project outlines an actionable, PD-based strategy for community-based organizations to improve peer relationships by increasing access to positive childhood experiences (PCEs) through the HOPE framework and the Four Building Blocks of HOPE for the children and youth they serve.
“The PD approach guided by the HOPE framework creates an easy-to-follow model that honors the knowledge and skill sets of those in the organization or community to create lasting improvement and systemic change,” says Laura Gallant, MSW, lead author and research associate at the HOPE National Resource Center.
First study to examine peer relationships using a Positive Deviance approach
Originally developed in the 1990s, the Positive Deviance approach is designed to solve complex systemic problems internally within the community rather than bringing in external solutions. The PD approach identifies positive deviants (PDs), people or groups within the community who practice specific behaviors and strategies that produce a more successful result. Practices are then replicated and disseminated with others in the community creating systemic change that lasts.
The PD approach has been used across multiple fields, including public health, education, and organizational development. This study with BGCM is the first known application of the PD approach in a community-based setting.
Increasing access to positive relationships and opportunities for emotional growth: a replicable model for community-based organizations to follow
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County provide a safe and supportive space to empower children and youth through programming and services, including homework assistance, technology centers, and job assistance.
At the Asbury Park location, the research team implemented a QI project based on the PD approach that included:
- Discovery and Action Dialogues (DADs): Initial discussions with staff members included direct service professionals, mid-level staff members, and senior leadership.
- Focus groups: Separate focus groups for staff and club members were conducted both before and after PD training.
- Staff observations: Observers followed staff, who were identified as PDs, and their day-to-day interaction with club members.
- PD training: PD training included an overview of PD practices, role-play activities led by staff identified as PDs, teach-back activities, and a Q&A discussion. The training was based on three key PD practice themes identified from the DADs, pre-training focus groups, and staff observations:
- Emotional check-ins
- Peer-to-peer conflict resolution
- Youth leadership and voice
Findings from the QI project were analyzed and organized into key themes using the HOPE framework’s Four Building Blocks of HOPE: relationships, environment, engagement, and emotional growth.
Notably, findings from the post-PD training focus groups showed that club members spoke more specifically about their positive peer relationships, calling others “nice” and “kind.” Staff also noticed a shift towards positive emotional growth, where members would “cool off” and self-regulate their emotions instead of resorting to conflict.
This QI project demonstrates the PD approach, guided by the HOPE framework, as a practical method to improve positive peer relationships among children and youth in community-based settings. This approach is highly replicable and can be implemented in numerous organizations and settings to create systemic, lasting changes.
About HOPE – Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences
Based at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts, the HOPE National Resource Center sees a world that honors and promotes positive experiences as necessary for health and well-being. It aims to inspire a movement that changes how people and organizations advance health and well-being for children, families, and communities.
Robert Sege, MD, PHD, FAAP, Director of the Center for Community-Engaged Medicine at Tufts Medical Center and Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Tufts University School of Medicine, leads the HOPE National Resource Center.
Inquiries: HOPE@tuftsmedicalcenter.org
