Losing fears and gaining perspective: a case study on youth participation

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to analyze the elements that influence youth participation through the work of municipal technicians working local development through a Participatory Social Diagnosis (PSD). We conducted an intrinsic study case in the region Els Ports (Castellón). The participants are composed by four technical workers who works in territory with high school students (245 students), and fellows of youth intern in centers. In the study, we used qualitative tools such as interviews, participant observation and promotor group meetings. All information was analyzed through Qualitative Content Analysis. Afterwards, we observed that shared leadership, horizontality, group cohesion, cooperation and dialogue are essential educational pillars to increase youth engagement in the dynamics of participation of its territory.