"The Contribution Project, led by Cornell psychologist Anthony Burrow, randomly selected more than 1,200 high school and college students to receive $400 to add value for themselves or for their communities. The funds came with no strings attached-students could decide to use the money however they wished. Eight weeks after receiving the funds, participants scored significantly higher than non-recipients on multiple psychological measures, including sense of belonging, well-being, sense of purpose, and feeling useful."
"Research finds that youth mental health has been on a downward spiral since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, 40 percent of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and 20 percent seriously considered attempting suicide. Experts in youth development have been investigating interventions and policy changes that will help improve adolescent mental health. A six-year research project from Cornell University has identified a surprisingly simple approach: focus on contributing to others."
Youth mental health declined after the COVID-19 pandemic, with 40 percent of high school students reporting persistent sadness and 20 percent considering suicide in 2023. A six-year randomized intervention gave more than 1,200 high school and college students $400 each to spend on themselves or their communities without restrictions. Eight weeks after receiving funds, recipients showed significantly higher sense of belonging, well-being, purpose, and feelings of usefulness compared with non-recipients. Participants used funds for diverse community-oriented actions, and the act of making meaningful contributions rather than specific activities correlated with psychological gains. Findings are preliminary and align with broader purpose and well-being research.
Read at Psychology Today
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