Abstract: In recent years, theoretical and practical research on character has received extensive attention. Character includes three interrelated components, namely habit, trait and virtue. According to multi-dimensional dynamic development theories, positive character could be cultivated and shaped by the interaction between individual and context. In addition, positive character can not only promote the mental health of children and adolescents, reduce problem behaviors, enhance happiness, but also help improve academic performance. However, different scholars have certain disputes about the structural models of character and the specific measurement model derived from them. Western countries have launched a series of character education programs, trying to achieve the goal of facilitating students' positive development by creating school environment atmosphere and providing targeted training. Future theoretical exploration should emphasis the construction of the connotation and structure of character under Chinese culture, exploration of measurement tools, longitudinal studies on the development curve, and influencing factors and functions of character. Future practice should establish comprehensive character cultivating systems based on Chinese culture characteristics in primary and secondary schools, especially for children in disadvantaged context.

Key words: character education, Chinese culture, children and adolescents