In this graduate thesis I research the approaches and methods that street youth works use on the field. In the theoretical part, I begin with the explanation of the term »young people«. I then focus on the struggles, risks and changes that youngsters go through every day. I discuss the living circumstances and influences affecting the youngsters growing up. I explain the concept of »free time« and what it brings to the youth. I then relate free time to subcultures that occur and develop in it, as well as play a big role in understanding the youth. I also talk about youth work in general, its characteristics and principles. I connect methods that youth workers use with specific concepts found in social work. I conclude by summarizing and defining the precise explanation of street youth work models and phases, as well as explain how it is useful when working with youth.
In my qualitative research, I interview street youth workers to find out which approaches and methods they use most often. I inquire what influences their methods most and how formal education and coworkers affect their work. We also discuss how the youth reacts to the street youth workers and how the street youth workers respond particularly when they are rejected by the youth. We also touch on the subjects of method improvements and how the street youth workers perceive them. The research shows that street youth workers use very diverse methods, but nevertheless always have the youths’ needs and interests in mind. The street youth work teams always plan in advance how to approach new fields. Their first step is always the research of needs and surfaces. Their purposes are diverse, but mostly work on the quality od free time, healthy and active way of living, informing the youth about different services, community work and also the increase of harmful consequences of alcohol and drugs use. The first contact with the fields is made by observing the community and initial connections with youth are mostly made with some kind of a trigger, like board games and sport activities. The most used method when developing relationships with youth is conversation. Street youth workers are always looking for development, but are mostly working on continuity.
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