Working with High-Risk Youth: A Relationship-Based Practice Framework

This book provides an overview of the Get Connected practice framework and philosophy, which has been successfully used in Canada and New Zealand to engage and work with high-risk youth, who struggle with neglect, abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, exploitation, mental health issues, and inability to self-regulate and trust. It offers strategies for engaging and working with these youth, incorporating harm reduction principles, resiliency, and strength-based approaches, as well as community collaboration and an understanding of their early trauma.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This extensively revised and expanded second edition is specifically tailored to cater to the unique challenges faced by high-risk youth, a population that encompasses a wide range of struggles, including neglect, abuse, substance abuse, exploitation risks, mental health issues, and difficulties in self-regulation and trust. Government child welfare services and community agencies often face significant challenges in adequately serving this population.

Traditionally, punishment-consequence interventions and strict compliance have been the primary approaches employed, but extensive experience and research have revealed that alternative strategies can yield more effective outcomes. Relationship-based practice, incorporating harm reduction principles, resiliency, and strength-based approaches, has proven to be particularly effective in serving these youth. By fostering community collaboration and recognizing the impact of early trauma on brain development and attachment formation, professionals can better understand and address the needs of these vulnerable individuals.

In this revised edition, readers will find valuable new material on attachment, trauma, and brain development. The book also delves into the concept of "the perfect storm youth," explores strategies for ending unhealthy relationships, addresses issues of shame, and sheds light on societal divisions that often contribute to the challenges faced by high-risk youth.

The Get Connected practice framework and philosophy, which have been successfully implemented in Canada and New Zealand, are presented in detail. This framework emphasizes engaging and working with the most disconnected, challenging, and troubled youth in society. It provides a comprehensive overview of the practice framework and philosophy, along with practical strategies for effectively engaging and supporting these youth.

This book is a must-read for all agency service providers, community outreach workers, youth workers, group home workers, probation officers, foster parents, adoptive parents, service navigators, counselors, addictions workers, mental health workers, teachers, youth group leaders, and youth pastors/advisors in religious settings, as well as camp counselors. It offers valuable insights and practical strategies for effectively addressing the complex needs of high-risk youth and fostering their well-being and resilience.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 138 x 216 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032419480
Edition number: 2 ed