Which is a characteristic of the "doing to" stage in youth work?

The "doing to" stage in youth work is characterized by a more directive approach from the caregiver or practitioner. In this stage, the focus is primarily on the actions taken by the adult to address certain behaviors or situations concerning the youth. This often involves intervention strategies aimed at stopping risky behaviors, with the adult taking the lead in decision-making processes.

In this context, trying to stop risky behavior is essential as it highlights the protective instinct present in this stage of engagement. Practitioners may implement behavioral management strategies, enforce rules, or create structured activities designed to curb negative behaviors. This stage may lack significant youth input regarding their individual goals or collaborative decision-making, emphasizing the more authoritative nature of the "doing to" approach.

This approach is essential in the early stages of engagement where immediate risks need to be managed, but it does not support high levels of mutual interaction or involvement. These latter characteristics are more aligned with later stages in youth work, which focus on collaboration, shared decision-making, and individualized goals.