Co-Creating Psychologically Safe Environments for the Development of Youth Critical Consciousness

• In Event: Listening to Youth Voices in Research, Education, and Social Action

Abstract

This study serves as an educative tool for teachers and mentors aiming to foster sociopolitical development and civic engagement orientations in young people. By drawing from existing research literature on youth critical and sociopolitical development and data from our recent qualitative study, this study illustrates effective strategies for creating environments, experiences, and engagements that empower young people to develop as social change agents. The study explores how adolescents integrate social issues into their identity development and highlights the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces for critical dialogue. The findings underscore the need for educational practices that support youth in becoming the change agents they aspire to be, emphasizing the role of supportive and respectful environments in this developmental process.

Authors

• Laura Fittz Parks, Fort Lewis College

• Ira E. Murray, Vanderbilt University

• Dena Lane-Bonds, Princeton University