The challenges and potential of developing a more effective youth work curriculum with young men

Abstract

Whilst traditional approaches to youth work in Northern Ireland have always engaged young men, until very recently there has been an absence of a youth work concern in regard to young men's emotional and health needs. In a world that has undergone significant social and economic change during the past thirty years, the lives of many young men have become increasingly complex and contradictory making them feel vulnerable and insecure. Central to this is appreciation of how narrow and unrealistic interpretations of masculinity impact upon male behaviour and development. Influenced by Youth Action Northern Ireland's model of practice with young men aged 14–25, this article highlights ways in which practitioners can better respond to the needs of young men living in areas of social and economic deprivation. Crucially this article presents some of the challenges and potential of developing a more coherent and strategic approach to the way in which the Youth Service in Northern Ireland should work with young men.