the four dimensions
The single attitudes are summarised in different headlines that illustrate what “communicating meaningfully” means for youth workers attitude-wise. The “clusters” do not name attitudes as such; these can be found through clicking on the lists.
Youth workers deal with the various ways persons act and are, and how they show their feelings. + -
Helpful attitudes are:
- openness to expressions of feelings and emotions (one’s own and those of others)
- readiness to take a step back and reflect (e.g. on one’s own perceptions, understanding and feelings)
- willingness to learn about the backgrounds, contexts, and realities of the young people
- awareness of different ways to share feelings, emotions, and opinions, both online and offline
The fact that there is always diversity in groups requires further attitudes. + -
These attitudes could be:
- sensitivity and openness to diversity
- awareness of the unique yet complex approach to one’s identity and how to deal with it when working in a group
Relationships and solidarity with individuals and groups are prerequisites for meaningful communication. + -
Attitudes that can support that are:
- confidence and courage to act in solidarity
- commitment to address and challenge a “them and us” mindset in a group
- awareness of the different ways to show solidarity
- commitment to critically reflect on different sources of information
