Improving practice: The importance of connections in establishing positive identity and meaning in the lives of vulnerable young people |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Social Work, Massey University, New Zealand;2. Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand;1. Institute of Child Protection Studies, Australian Catholic University, Canberra, ACT 2602, Australia;2. National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;1. University of Washington, School of Medicine, 2815 Eastlake Ave East, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98102, USA;2. Department of Social and Health Services, Children''s Administration, P.O. Box 45710, Olympia, WA 98504, USA;3. Building Changes, 2014 E. Madison, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98122, USA;4. Harborview Center for Sexual Assault and Traumatic Stress, 401 Broadway, #2027, Seattle, WA 98122, USA;5. Department of Health, Access Care and Coordination Section, Healthy Starts and Transitions, P.O. Box 47880, Tumwater, WA 98505-7880, USA;6. Washington State Health Care Authority, 626 8th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA;7. Department of Social and Health Services, Behavioral Health & Service Integration Administration, P.O. Box 45330, Olympia, WA 98504, USA |
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| Abstract: | This 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. |
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