This article begins with a brief overview of research and literature since 1907 on the nature of adolescent experience, particularly that focusing on problem behaviors. A discussion of recent research focusing on the positive aspects of human nature, rather than the negative aspects, follows. This "positive psychology" movement is described as a response to the almost exclusive focus on pathology that has previously prevailed in the study of human beings within the psychology discipline. Readers of this article are directed to particular issues of journals of psychology and their articles on the subject of youth within this movement. Larson, in 2000, is referenced as arguing that the development of initiative is central to positive development by youth. Others note that the necessity of being directly involved in daily experiences, with the potential of leading to a "flow experience," is essential to adolescent well being and academic achievement. The authors, and a selection of papers, that have studied accounts by adolescents of growth experiences in their activities, are listed as sources. Obstacles faced by the positive psychology movement are described, such as appropriate methods for inquiry. In conclusion, it is recommended that this movement can lead to a productive context and setting for the further work of a wide variety of developmentalists with varied methodologies. A list of references is provided.