Abstract
This introduction to the special issue highlights the youth development research and practice base that influenced the field in the 20th century and presents some historical context for the practice and study of youth work. Next, it provides an overview of the articles which offer a retrospective account of youth development from how youth development has been studied, understood and measured to how youth development practice has evolved to support, engage and address the needs of young people. The introduction concludes with reflections stimulated by the process of reviewing the manuscripts and working with the authors on their contributions. Three themes emerged as good grist for the 21st century conversations moving forward: 1) the divergent perspectives on definition, dimensions of practice and accountability, 2) the value of translational scholarship bridging science and complex practice, and 3) the importance of leveraging systems support for field building.
Highlights
This introduction to the special issue highlights the youth development research and practice base that influenced the field in the 20th century and presents some historical context for the practice and study of youth work
This special issue of the Journal of Youth Development: Bridging Research and Practice highlights the issues in youth development research and practice that have influenced our growing field in the 20th century
When this journal’s editorial board decided to publish a special issue commemorating the 100th anniversary of many national youth-serving organizations founded between 1907 and 1914, we three guest editors saw a tremendous opportunity to reflect on research trends and contributions that have influenced the field over time and to consider issues of practice that continue to evolve and challenge the field
Summary
This introduction to the special issue highlights the youth development research and practice base that influenced the field in the 20th century and presents some historical context for the practice and study of youth work. The frame for the special issue is bridging research and practice around youth development in organizational settings and with attention to the impact on the lives of young people.
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