Day 1

© ADAP

Day One was the most intensive day as participants shared their respective organisations' experiences with adolescents, how they reach them, obstacles they may have faced, and reasons for their success. Push and pull factors to sub-cultures were identified as it was noted that Adolescents may be pushed towards sub-cultures because of violence, abuse, conflict or unhappiness at home. They may be pulled to sub-cultures because they are attractive, offer a sense of belonging and feeling different and special, and offer alternative activities to those of normal, routine life. While some sub-cultures are negative, some are positive and we should not seek to change the positive ones, participants said. Groups' success was defined by creating a stable and friendly environment for adolescents, giving them some sense of ownership in the process, treating them with equality and respect, extending affection, listening to them, and offering avenues through which they could express themselves and channel their feelings. Of significance was the great impact that the media has on youth.