Creating a caring relationship with emerging adults by helping and being a support: youth workers’ experiences

Background: Emerging adulthood, 18-25 years, is a point in life where young people are moving towards
independence and lives of their own. This transition affect their relationships with others and can be challenging,
and have an impact on their mental health and may lead to vulnerability. Many young people seek help from
various professionals in health and social care. Few studies are found that concern youth workers relationship with
young people.
Aim: The aim of this study was to explore youth workers’ experiences of encountering emerging adults.
Method: Focus group interviews were used for data collection, with qualitative method used as analysis.
Findings: Two main themes describing youth workers’ experiences of encountering emerging adults were
revealed: “Helping emerging adults” and “Being a support.” The themes show that managing life can at times be
demanding as emerging adults need “hands on” support. Further, the role of the professional relationship also has
a strong focus on social bonding as emerging adults may in an “individualistic society” suffer from isolation or
loneliness.