Who is youth work for? distortions and possibilities

This paper explores competing perspectives relating to the policy and practice of Youth Work. The title suggests that there are significant distortions and opposing views relating to the status of young people and the development of response provision. The paper argues that by developing methodologies which challenge the negative positioning of young people we are more able to develop meaningful relationships both structurally and in practice. Finally, there is an analysis of engagement models and democratic ways of working within institutions serving young people.