This study book addresses the professionalization of youth work within the contemporary social and political context. It focuses on the development of youth work as a socio-educational profession, where small steps bring about major changes and ultimately lead to great victories in practice. The shift toward preventive work, the debate on quality improvement, and integrated collaboration within the youth chain are central themes.
The book emphasizes the importance of historical awareness within youth work, which has contributed for more than one hundred years to the well-being of young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. By drawing on this rich tradition, the field gains more inspiration, professional pride, and legitimacy.
This chronological approach makes the work suitable for professionals and policymakers involved in the training of youth workers and the positioning of youth work within youth care, education, and policing. In this way, the book provides a valuable foundation for taking small steps with major victories in the field.