What is the focus of stage 1, "doing for," in youth work?

Stage 1, "doing for," in youth work primarily focuses on constructing experiences to meet youth needs directly. This approach is grounded in the idea that, initially, youth may require more structured support and guidance as they navigate their development. In this stage, youth workers actively engage in providing experiences that cater to the immediate needs of the young individuals, ensuring that they feel supported and have the necessary resources to thrive.

In this context, the emphasis is on direct involvement and practical assistance, which helps young people feel cared for and understood. This type of intervention is pivotal in building trust and rapport between youth workers and the youth they serve. By meeting needs in a direct manner, it lays the groundwork for future stages of development, where responsibilities and independence can gradually be introduced.

The other options reflect different aspects of youth development that may come into play in later stages. While helping youth feel good about themselves is an important goal, the focus in stage 1 is more on providing direct support rather than the broader goal of self-esteem building. Similarly, mutual decision-making and fostering independence are essential elements in later stages of youth work once a foundation of support has been established during the "doing for" phase.