What does level 1 of Phelan's 3 stages of professional development emphasize?

Level 1 of Phelan's 3 stages of professional development emphasizes focusing on personal safety and external controls. This foundational stage is crucial as it helps professionals manage their own well-being and security while engaging with clients. By concentrating on personal safety, practitioners create a stable environment for themselves, which is essential when interacting with children and youth who may be in vulnerable situations.

Moreover, at this early stage of development, the emphasis on external controls indicates the need for structured interventions and clear boundaries. Professionals at this level often rely on established procedures and guidelines to ensure the safety and security of both themselves and their clients. This reliance on external controls forms a fundamental basis for effective practice, allowing practitioners to build confidence and eventually progress to more advanced levels of professional development where they can focus on relational interactions and theoretical applications.