Counselling the Released Young Offender
By Brigid Murphy
- Lack of normal life experiences
- Inadequate role modelling
- Discrimination
- Employer attitude’s
- Inadequate education
- Illiteracy
- Poor social skills
- Cultural differences
- Perceived reality
- Negative self concept
- Poor work attitude
- Marginalization
- Identity confusion
- Values clash
- Low self esteem
- No support systems/no family
- Language barrier
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- History of emotional, physical, sexual abuse
- Developmental disabilities
- Gender confusion
- History of failures
- Emotional instability
- Young dependants
- Lack of vocational skills
- Depression
- Involved with child and family services
- Physical appearance
- Learning difficulties
- Stereotyping
- Medical problems
- Economically and socially disadvantaged
The top three critical barriers noted by NYIC are: lack of education due to early independent living and the need to focus on meeting basic survival needs; no personal support networks – family or otherwise; and no financial resources. For others it is: court ordered client resistance; lack of work experience; confusion about vocational choice; health issues; poor adaptation skills; lack of problem solving skills; low self esteem; lack of trust; and, an unstable home life.