Context Mapping

In Chapter 2 of UnderstandingYouth: Adolescent Development for Educators by Nakkula and Toshalis the discussion of both identity and context mapping is discussed.  Context mapping is a how we as human beings define ourselves.  Our identity is different when we are presented with different contexts.  An example of my different experiences definitely shapes to mold these separate identities.  In school I am a student who is learning, taking classes and anticipating graduation whereas in my job and internship I am professional while helping to mold who I want/inspire to be as both a youth worker and an employer.

In this reading following Julian’s bathroom graffiti incident, Mitch asked Julian to make a list that consisted of the various spaces and relationships in his life.  Julian’s list consist was to open his eyes on what the things surrounding him are demanding him.

The four different identities are as followed:

1. Foreclosed identity is defined without any prior life experiences, not being open-minded to other things/experiences.         
2. Diffuse identity is defined as changing their identity in regard to their surroundings. Their identity changes due to the context, such as friends, school and other events. 
3. Identity moratorium is defined as using this period for testing out new ideas. Testing new ideas opens the eyes to see if they work or do not work.
4. Achieved identity is when an individual gathers their past, present and future experiences to mold together a "leader role".

Youth Development Ideology Horoscope

For this weeks assignment we were asked to take an "Youth Development Ideology Quiz" to describe our style of being a youth worker.  There were three different types that one could fall under in regards to how he or she works with youth.  They are listed as followed;

Risk, Resiliency and Prevention
Positive Youth Development
Critical Youth Development 

     While answering these questions I reflected on my past and present experiences with youth.  Being able to create a bond with youth between the ages of kindergarten and fifth grade has truly opened my eyes on youth work.  Positivity is key and making their voices be heard as they prepare to move forward in his or her education.  Also not only being a role model for youth but also being a mentor  for them is something that is very important as well.  As a youth worker we are to help shape and guide youth into who he or she wants to become in the future.  

     After adding up my results I was truly surprised to have Risk, Resiliency and Prevention be my top choice.  I kept an open mind when it came to reading more about this specific one.  

This horoscope is explained as "a focus on preventing negative outcomes (through fostering protective factors)".  In regards to being a youth worker,  I am a bit confused as to if this is truly the type of worker that I am.  As a youth worker I feel that being a guide towards a youth for his or her success is definitely crucial but at the same time I do not feel that his or her "brains are not fully developed".  Youth, even at the youngest age to late teens all face different ways of life. Some youth are faced with learning about the world around them by themselves and as a youth worker I feel that is something tremendous.  I do agree that there are certain topics such as teen pregnancy, teen sex and STD's are topics that as a youth worker we think critically on how to approach.

     Overall, before taking the horoscope quiz I really felt, and still do, feel that I am a Positive Youth Development worker, the one that I ended up with is somewhat of how I am as a worker.  I feel that when working with youth I would like to know how to approach certain topics that some youth do not know about but I also want youth to have a voice as well.    

Below are examples of how I interact with youth as a youth worker in the making! :)