Work

Healthy young adult relationships (HYAR): professionals' perspectives on HYAR education and training

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The onus for educating and supporting young people in navigating romantic relationships often falls on professional youth work organizations; yet, evidence relating to healthy young adult relationship (HYAR) education programmes delivered within these settings remains limited. The present study sought to capture youth work professionals' views as part of a research programme focused on developing HYAR education resources for young people. Eleven youth work professionals in Northern Ireland participated in individual interviews or focus groups (5 interviews and 2 focus groups) between September and November 2024. Three master themes were identified using Reflexive Thematic Analysis: (1) defining and understanding coercive control; (2) barriers to communicating and reporting; and 3) training needs. The findings highlight professionals' perceptions of HYAR education and training needs of young people, parents and professionals. Participating professionals believed that youth work organizations should assume a key role in delivering HYAR education in a meaningful and accessible way.

Source: International Journal of Adolescence and Youth

DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2026.2670387