Partnering with Purpose: Enhancing Adolescent Communication and Trust in a Digital Age
Young people today are growing up in a rapidly expanding world of information, technology, and connection. Health decisions and behaviors are shaped by personal, social, and cultural forces, and deeply influenced by how young people access, interpret, and use information in their everyday lives. The adults who support youth are navigating this same complex landscape and have an opportunity to learn, partner, and grow with young people—drawing on their experience and wisdom while working together to navigate misinformation and harness new opportunities for connection and access.
At the 2026 Adolescent Health Summer Institute, we will explore how to communicate effectively with adolescents about health in ways that are strengths-based and grounded in trust. Join us as we explore how to enhance relationships and create environments—both digital and in-person—where young people can advocate for and achieve their best health. Through shared learning and collaboration, we will build the skills, relationships, and understanding needed to support adolescents in becoming informed, empowered, and connected decision-makers in a complex and changing world.
Who should attend?
All who work with young people - teachers, counselors, physicians, social workers, dietitians, mentors, coaches, school nurses, public health nurses and nurse practitioners, health educators, psychologists, school district personnel, youth ministers, religious leaders, law enforcement, policymakers, youth workers, youth advocates, and community leaders.
Daily Objectives
- Day One – Tuesday, July 28, 2026
- Day Two – Wednesday, July 29, 2026
- Day Three – Thursday, July 30, 2026
Theme: Foundations of Trust, Communication, and Youth Partnership
Objectives:
By the end of Day One, participants will be able to:
- Describe key factors that shape adolescent health communication today, including developmental, social, and cultural influences.
- Explain how trust is built (and broken) in youth–adult relationships, particularly in health contexts.
- Identify strengths-based and youth-centered communication approaches that support engagement and openness.
Reflect on youth perspectives regarding credible information and communication, incorporating insights from youth voices and lived experiences.
Theme: Navigating Digital Influence, Media, and Misinformation
Objectives:
By the end of Day Two, participants will be able to:
- Recognize common forms of misinformation and disinformation and their impact on youth decision-making.
- Apply media literacy and digital health frameworks (e.g., digital wellness, critical consumption) to real-world scenarios.
- Practice strategies for discussing digital content with adolescents in ways that build critical thinking rather than shame or resistance.
Theme: Applying Skills and Building Supportive Systems
Objectives:
By the end of Day Three, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate practical communication strategies (e.g., motivational interviewing, TALK toolkit) to support adolescent health conversations.
- Integrate youth voice and partnership into practice, including clinical, educational, and community settings.
- Demystify digital environments (including AI) and how they shape adolescent health beliefs and behaviors.
- Identify opportunities to influence policies, environments, and systems that support healthy adolescent development and equitable access to information.