“To feel safe with adults does not come naturally. ” A qualitative study of leisure leaders' work with youth in an exposed area.

Abstract

The thesis is based on a field study conducted on leisure leaders in a youth recreation centre located in Stockholm, Sweden, which the police have named as an exposed area (Swedish: utsatt område). In recent years, Sweden has gained attention as a result of being exposed to multiple violent crimes committed by gangs. Youth recreation centres are supposed to be a place to prevent youth from being on the streets, a place for them to encounter positive role models and have meaningful free time. The main argument of this thesis is that leisure leaders work with youth engagement in the centre. To analyse the empirical data, two theoretical frameworks were used, which are relationship and gender. The theories help us understand the leisure leaders' way of working. This study was conducted for eight weeks, from late January to early March of 2024. The methods used were participatory observation, semi-structural and informal interviews. The study shows that gender and relationships in the form of friends, ‘trusted adults’ and role models are important fundamental aspects concerning the leisure leaders' way of working with keeping the youth in the centre. This thesis is written in English.