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Improving practice: The importance of connections in establishing positive identity and meaning in the lives of vulnerable young people
Noble-Carr, Debbie Barker, Justin McArthur, Morag Woodman, Elise
Noble-Carr, Debbie
Barker, Justin
McArthur, Morag
Woodman, Elise
Abstract
his article presents the findings of a participatory qualitative study investigating the role and potency of identity and meaning in the lives of vulnerable young people. In-depth interviews with 24 young people revealed the importance of connectedness in fostering positive identity and meaning in vulnerable young people's lives. Five critical domains for building positive identity and meaning emerged: caring relationships; participation and contribution within their communities; achieving a sense of belonging; competence; and hope. Young people's experiences uncovered that connectedness lies at the heart of all of these domains, and is therefore the pathway for vulnerable young people to attain positive identity and meaning. The findings reinforce what we know about the importance of connectedness for vulnerable young people and provided insights into how young people want to be supported with these issues. This article critically examines some of the difficulties for support workers in facilitating connectedness for young people and considers why these connections are not always developed. Practical suggestions are provided for how youth support workers may be able to overcome these challenges.
Keywords
Date
2014
Type
Journal article
Journal
Children and Youth Services Review
Book
Volume
47
Issue
3
Page Range
389-396
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Allied Health
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled