Aims of the project

Our research project aims to improve knowledge and understanding about the experiences and needs of young men, to influence public policy, and to support and improve professional practice with the most vulnerable young men.

The objectives of the study are:

• to explore whether the gender identity of the worker makes a difference to developing good quality relationships between workers and young men
• to explore how gender interacts with other aspects of identity, such as class and ethnicity
• to explore how professional relationships with boys and young men can be improved and the lessons for professional practice more generally
• to contribute to policy, practice and academic debates about the development of young masculinities and young men’s transitions to adulthood.