It's more than 10 years since respected youth work academic Mark K Smith drew our attention to the three negatives associated with the term "youths": thugs, users or victims. Thugs need to be constrained; users abuse substances or need services delivered to them; and victims require protection from themselves or others. Nevertheless, much of what has constituted youth policy over the past decade has continued to reinforce, rather than counter these negatives.
While I don't want to pick over the bones of youth policy - others have done that far more eloquently than me - it may be worth looking more closely at the thinking that has shaped it.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
