“It’s always in the back of your mind” Newry and Armagh Area Based Strategy (Developing Children and Young people)

McMullan, Martin, McShane, Louis and Grattan, Alan (2006) “It’s always in the back of your mind” Newry and Armagh Area Based Strategy (Developing Children and Young people) Belfast, Northern Ireland. Youth Action Northern Ireland 206pp.

Abstract

“It’s always in the back of your mind” is a quote from one of the young people involved in the action research process. We feel that this encapsulates the sentiment of the research findings, both in terms of issues for young people and workers. For example, although the Newry and Armagh area is continuing to develop from the legacy of the troubles, young people are still affected by the stories of the past and hesitations to openly trust and feel safe. As one young man cited “it’s always in the back of your mind”. The quote implies that eventhough the ‘troubles’ may have gone or are disappearing there are still lingering prejudices, fears and suspicions. In relation to the everyday lives of young people “it’s always in the back of your mind” appears to encapsulate the conscious thoughts that affect their choices, behaviours and attitudes. For young people this can mean being careful in the areas that they socialise, work or hang out. The quote can also relate to the feeling that there can also be something ‘niggling away in the back of a young person’s mind’. This clearly indicates that those working with young people need to encourage young people to explore themselves, their values, beliefs and attitudes in a way which doesnot compromise their identity. We should be supporting young people to address thoughts and feelings which may be suppressed and consequently may lead to violence, self harm, low self-esteem, confusion or even suicide.

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