This systematic review aims to increase empirical understanding of the use of youth empowerment and youth empowerment programs (YEPs) as a strategy for developing psychosocial assets among adolescents. Despite the increasing popularity of involving young people in the processes that affect their lives and communities, little is known about the demonstrated impacts that such participatory programming has on young people (Gray & Hayes, 2008; Zeldin, 2000). The review defines YEPs as interventions that regularly involve young people as partners and participants in the decision-making processes that determine program goals, planning and/or implementation. With the support of caring adults, YEPs engage young people in program leadership as a characteristic of their involvement in safe, positive, and structured activities outside of formal education. This review aims to systematically investigate and summarize the state of the evidence on the impacts of YEPs on adolescents' self-efficacy and self-esteem. The expectation of policy-makers, funders, and community organizations to actively involve young people in program design and implementation is becoming increasingly popular. This review works towards a better understanding of the measured merits behind that option. If evidence allows, the review further aims to advance knowledge with respect to the decisions within youth empowerment (e.g. how youth empowerment works best and for whom).