At level 2 of Phelan's professional development model, what is a primary focus for the practitioner?

At level 2 of Phelan's professional development model, the primary focus for the practitioner is on supporting clients to take control of themselves. This stage emphasizes empowerment and fostering autonomy in clients, encouraging them to take ownership of their actions and decisions. By guiding clients to develop self-regulation and personal accountability, practitioners help facilitate personal growth and resilience.

Supporting clients in this manner is crucial, as it enables them to build confidence in their abilities to navigate challenges and make informed choices. This approach is foundational for effective child and youth care practice, where the goal is to promote positive development and self-determination.

In contrast, other responses like implementing strict rules for client behavior, developing skills in self-observation, or reinforcing established routines may have their place within the broader context of client care, but they do not align with the primary focus of level 2. Instead, they may potentially limit client autonomy or focus more on the practitioner's skill development rather than empowering the client.