Methodical principles and prevention-focused outcomes in professional youth work: A longitudinal analysis

2021 ◽  
pp. 146801732110547
Author(s):  
Jolanda Sonneveld ◽  
Judith Metz ◽  
Willeke Manders ◽  
René Schalk ◽  
Tine Van Regenmortel
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Models ◽  
Personal Development ◽  
Outcome Measure ◽  
Civic Participation ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Prosocial Skills ◽  
Positive Role ◽  
Work Settings ◽  
Social Returns

Previous research has suggested that professional youth work settings empower socially vulnerable youngsters, strengthening their personal development and social participation. It is expected that youth work can prevent personal and social problems of youngsters, which may have longer term positive social returns. How the underlying methodical way of acting of youth workers contributes to prevention-focused outcomes remains unclear. This article presents a four-wave longitudinal cohort study (16 months) that investigated longitudinal associations between 12 individual methodical principles that youth workers apply in interactions with youngsters and four prevention-focused outcomes: prosocial skills, self-mastery, social network and civic participation. The sample consisted of 1,597 Dutch youngsters with a mean age of 16.5 years (SD = 3.60). Findings: Linear mixed models analysis found that all individual methodical principles were longitudinally associated with one or more outcome. The strongest associations were observed with regard to prosocial skills and civic participation. Depending on the outcome measure, methodical principles seem to be more effective for boys, for youngsters who participate for 3 years or longer in youth work settings and for youngsters between 10 and 19 years old. With regard to the effect of methodical principles on improving self-mastery, 9 of the 12 principles appeared to play no positive role in increasing self-mastery of youngsters. Applications: This study provides youth workers with a better understanding of which methodical principles are positively associated with prevention-focused outcomes as well as reinforcing the evidence-based practice of professional youth work.

scholarly journals The Contribution of Professional Youth Work to the Personal Development and Social Participation of Socially Vulnerable Youngsters: A Dutch Longitudinal Cohort Study

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jolanda Sonneveld ◽  
Judith Metz ◽  
Willeke Manders ◽  
René Schalk ◽  
Tine Van Regenmortel
Keyword(s):  
Cohort Study ◽  
Social Participation ◽  
Personal Development ◽  
Longitudinal Cohort Study ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Positive Trend ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Prosocial Skills ◽  
Longitudinal Cohort ◽  
Care Services

AbstractThis article focuses on how length of participation in professional youth work is associated with five outcome variables: prosocial skills, self-mastery, social network, civic participation (volunteering and organizing activities) and finding support from social care services. The study was designed as a longitudinal cohort study of four waves during a 16-month period, gathering the data of 1597 youngsters aged 10–24 who participated in Dutch professional youth work. The results show that, on average, youngsters who participated longer in youth work scored significantly higher on the outcome variables. Respondents did not show individual improvements on outcome variables over the period, but the results demonstrate a cautious positive trend over time in volunteering. Referring youngsters (33%) by youth workers to care services could prevent an exacerbation of existing problems. The results provide knowledge that legitimizes the role of professional youth workers and which can be used by them to improve the support of socially vulnerable youngsters in their personal development and social participation.

scholarly journals Samenspel tussen jongerenwerk en specialistische jeugdzorg

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jolanda Sonneveld ◽  
Judith Metz ◽  
René Schalk ◽  
Tine Van Regenmortel
Keyword(s):  
Young People ◽  
Mental Healthcare ◽  
Youth Care ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Professional Help ◽  
Work Settings ◽  
Care Services ◽  
Meaningful Relationships ◽  
Addiction Care

Een deel van de jongeren die in het jongerenwerk partici- peert ontvangt specialistische jeugdzorg, vanuit bijvoorbeeld verslavingszorg, jeugdreclassering, jeugd-ggz of intensieve gezinsbehandeling. Hoewel profes- sioneel jongerenwerk voor een brede groep jongeren in kwetsbare situaties positief bijdraagt aan hun persoonlijke ontwikkeling en maatschappelijke participatie, is er weinig bekend over de betekenis van het jongerenwerk voor jongeren die specialistische jeugdzorg ontvangen. Voor dit verkennende onderzoek zijn interviews afgenomen met: 1) zeven jongeren (16+) die specialistische jeugdzorg ontvangen en in jongerenwerk participeren; 2) zeven jongerenwerkers en 3) zes jeugdhulpverleners werk- zaam in specialistische jeugdzorg. Een thematische analyse maakt inzichtelijk dat het jongerenwerk op vijf manieren van betekenis is voor jongeren in specialistische jeugdzorg. Jonge- renwerkers zijn ten eerste toegankelijke gesprekspartners die deze jongeren motiveren om problemen serieus te nemen en daarbij professionele hulp te accepteren. Het jongerenwerk biedt deze jongeren daarnaast een omgeving om 2) betekenisvolle relaties op te bouwen, 3) hun zelfbeeld en eigenwaarde te versterken, 4) hun maatschappelijke participatie te vergroten en 5) onder- steuning te vinden om hun zelfstandigheid te vergroten. De resultaten maken inzichtelijk dat het jongerenwerk ook voor deze specifieke groep jongeren groeikansen biedt voor hun persoonlijke ontwik- keling en maatschappelijke participatie. Daarnaast leert dit onderzoek dat participatie van deze doelgroep in het jongerenwerk een positieve invloed kan hebben op de jeugdhulpverleningsprocessen en -resultaten. Hiermee bieden de resultaten gemeenten en de jeugdzorg een beter begrip van hoe het jongerenwerk als preventieve voorziening van betekenis is voor jongeren in specialistische jeugdzorg en een bijdrage kan leveren om de druk op de jeugdzorg te verlichten. Engelstalige versie van de samenvatting A substantial share of all young people who participate in professional youth work settings receive specialised youth-care services, such as addiction care, mental healthcare or intensive family treatment. Nevertheless, little is known about the unique value of youth work settings for young people who are receiving specialised youth-care services. In this exploratory study, we investigated the unique value of youth work for young people in specialised youth-care programmes. Interviews were conducted with: 1) seven young people (16 years of age and older) who were receiving specialised youth-care services and participating in youth-work settings; 2) seven youth workers and 3) six professionals working in specialised youth-care services. Thematic analysis demonstrates that participation in youth-work settings is significant for this group in five ways. First, youth workers provide these young people with accessible dialogue partners who can motivate them to take problems seriously and accept professional help for their vulnerabilities. Youth workers also offer an environment within which to 2) build meaningful relationships; 3) strengthen self-concept and self-esteem; 4) enhance social participation and 5) receive support that helps to increase independence. These findings thus suggest that youth work offers growth opportunities for this specific group. They further indicate that participation in youth work settings can reduce the duration and intensity of the youth-care services provided. The results can help municipalities and youth-care professionals to enhance their understanding of the importance of professional youth work to young people who are receiving specialised youth-care services and how youth work can contribute to reducing high healthcare costs.

A Comparative Study of the State of Ethics in Youth Work Practice in Jamaica, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Cleopatra Monique Parkins
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Code Of Ethics ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Work Practice ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Ethical Practices ◽  
The United Kingdom

Even though youth work has played a critical role in fostering the holistic development of today’s youth, much controversy has surrounded the practice. Nevertheless, youth workers are slowly being accorded professional status, and a code of ethics has been developed in some jurisdictions. Some states are still to adopt this code; consequently the credibility of youth workers and the sector in general sway with the wind. This article presents a comparative analysis of ethical practices of youth work in Jamaica, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, examining current trends in observing ethics and addressing ethical issues. In the case of Jamaica, the researcher used the non-probability convenience sampling technique and collected primary data from a questionnaire administered to a sample of youth workers. The perspective of the ministerial arm responsible for youth work in Jamaica was also captured through an interview. In the case of Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, the framework of the profession and specifically matters pertaining to ethical practices were examined through the use of secondary data sources, which included reports on youth work practices in the selected countries. A mixed methodology was employed in analysing the data collected. The major findings of this study confirmed that advancing youth work as a profession is dependent on the acceptance and integration of a formal code of ethics, that youth workers must receive training on ethics and that a national youth work policy is important to guide youth work practice. In accordance with the findings, the researcher makes a number of recommendations and highlights notable best practices that may help with the overall professionalisation of the sector.

Personal development review (PDR) process and engineering staff motivation

2014 ◽  
Vol 25 (6) ◽  
pp. 827-847 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claire Baldwin ◽  
Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes ◽  
Vikas Kumar ◽  
Luis Rocha-Lona
Keyword(s):  
Personal Development ◽  
Manufacturing Industry ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Positive Role ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Development Review ◽  
Staff Motivation ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Engineering Staff

Purpose – The academic literature and motivational theory recognise the positive role of motivation on organisational performance and considers personal development as a key motivational factor. In practice, most organisations employ a personal development review (PDR) process to drive and plan the development of their staff. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the interrelation and impact of the PDR process, and its elements, on staff motivation. Design/methodology/approach – The study is based on a case study research approach carried out in two large manufacturing-engineering departments of a world-class manufacturing organisation. A survey questionnaire was designed, validated and distributed to the engineering staff and its results were analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings – The study's results indicate that in most of the cases, a PDR process does not by itself motivate staff. But it argues that a poorly designed and conducted PDR process may make motivation, through personal development, difficult to achieve. Practical implications – This paper provides manufacturing managers with an opportunity to understand whether a common business process (i.e. PDR), and the elements that comprise it, can be employed as a method to aid in the motivation of their staff. Originality/value – This research expands the current knowledge on motivational and manufacturing management theory by performing an initial and exploratory study that establishes the impact of the PDR process on staff motivation. It is among the very first investigations that correlate the PDR process and motivation, especially in the manufacturing industry.

Exploring emancipatory youth work

2006 ◽  
Vol 49 (4) ◽  
pp. 471-481 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steven Ngai Sek Yum
Keyword(s):  
Hong Kong ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers

English The present study explores the possibility of emancipatory youth work from a Foucauldian perspective focusing on practitioners' potential as a force for change. Based on narratives generated from interviews with outreach youth workers in Hong Kong, the study shows how workers have invented their own style of liberating practice. The implications of the findings are discussed. French La présente étude explore les possibilités du travail d'émancipation auprès des jeunes selon une perspective foucaldienne focalisant sur le potentiel des praticiens comme moteur de changement. En se basant sur les récits obtenus à la suite d'entrevues avec des travailleurs de proximité auprès des jeunes à Hong Kong, l'étude montre comment ces travailleurs ont créé leur propre style de libération de la pratique. Les résultats de la recherche sont analysés. Spanish Se explora la posibilidad de trabajo emancipatorio con jóvenes desde una perspectiva foucauldiana, enfocándose en el potencial del trabajador social como una fuerza de cambio. Partiendo de narrativas generadas en entrevistas con trabajadores con jóvenes en el Hong Kong, el estudio muestra como estos trabajadores han inventado su propio estilo de práctica liberadora. Se exponen las implicaciones de los resultados.

scholarly journals Intersectoral Action to Enhance the Social Inclusion of Socially Vulnerable Youth through Sport: An Exploration of the Elements of Successful Partnerships between Youth Work Organisations and Local Sports Clubs

2015 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 98-107 ◽  
Author(s):  
Niels Hermens ◽  
Sabina Super ◽  
Kirsten Verkooijen ◽  
Maria Koelen
Keyword(s):  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Intersectoral Action ◽  
Vulnerable Youth ◽  
Sports Clubs ◽  
The Social ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Sports Activities

Research shows that participation in sport is positively related to self-esteem, self-regulation skills, and social inclusion. As socially vulnerable youngsters participate less frequently in sports activities than their average peers, youth work organisations try to guide their clients (i.e., socially vulnerable youngsters) to local sports clubs and inclusive sports activities. Inclusive sports activities, however, cannot be provided by youth work organisations alone. Therefore, in the Netherlands, intersectoral action involving both youth work organisations and local sports clubs has emerged. Because youth workers and stakeholders in local sports clubs are not used to collaborating with each other, we explored the factors that contribute to the quality and performance of such intersectoral actions. On the basis of five open interviews with youth workers and three focus groups with stakeholders in local sports clubs, we described factors relating to the organisation of intersectoral action among youth workers and local sports clubs that are preconditions for the success of this specific type of intersectoral action.

scholarly journals Making the Best Better: 4-H Staffing Patterns and Trends in the Largest Professional Network in the Nation

2007 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 25-Jun
Author(s):  
Kirk A. Astroth
Keyword(s):  
Baseline Data ◽  
Academic Training ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Academic Degree ◽  
Program Delivery ◽  
Professional Network ◽  
Future Challenges ◽  
Staffing Patterns ◽  
State Extension

The results from the National 4-H Headquarters’ survey of the 4-H workforce provides baseline data about 4-H staffing, structures in which 4-H professionals work, and salaries ranges as reported by state Extension 4-H directors. All 50 states responded to the survey and results are reported in eight areas: 1. profile of respondents; 2. current 4-H staffing structures; 3. staffing trends and changes since 1990; 4. academic degree requirements; 5. compensation levels; 6. academic and other preparation; 7. ideal staffing models; and 8. current and future challenges. The survey revealed that academic training of 4-H professionals and compensation for 4-H youth workers was higher compared to their counterparts in youth work elsewhere. While funding for 4-H positions has remained stable, there has been an increase in the use of para-professionals for program delivery.

scholarly journals FORMATION OF YOUTH WORKER PROFESSIONALISM: PROBLEMS IN ESTONIA

2015 ◽  
Vol 68 (1) ◽  
pp. 84-96
Author(s):  
Maarika Veigel
Keyword(s):  
Professional Development ◽  
Professional Growth ◽  
Formal Education ◽  
National Curriculum ◽  
High Mobility ◽  
Professional Staff ◽  
Development Model ◽  
Youth Work ◽  
Youth Workers ◽  
Youth Worker

Youth field has been in constant evolution during the restoration period of Estonian independence, since 1991. The theoretical overview is about youth worker professionalism, associated with the developments in the European and Estonian youth field and in the context of the Berliner competency levels development model. It explains the expectations set for youth workers, to teaching and youth field institutions. Youth work is expected, like formal education, with more clearly defined educational goals, and it is emphasized that it is a non-formal education. An important aspect is enjoying of the activities and its educational elements. The National Curriculum for Basic Schools and Gymnasium (2011) sets the expectations that the non-formal education will give more support to students to complete the curriculum of formal education. Youth work in Estonia is an essential component of the educational system. Therefore, the professionalism of youth workers and their coping with new challenges is very important. Over the last ten years, major changes in the Estonian youth worker professionalism and in the aspects of professional development haven’t been mentioned. The answers are briefly: in Estonia youth worker profession has been associated with the development of youth field, but the staff preparation is very different and characterised by low working experience. Berliner presented development model of competency levels, treats the professional development as long-term, complex process, distinguishing between the five stages of development of the professional staff, which are also regarded in the context of the professional development of the youth worker. Youth work quality is dependent on the availability of professional youth workers and in order to gain it, the high mobility inside the sector should be reduced, a better situation and more support should be created for the formation of youth worker professionalism at the various levels of the professional growth. Key words: competency, professional level, professionalism, youth work, youth worker.

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