This unit will introduce students to the various theoretical frameworks that exist within the youth sector. Students will be orientated to various theories which influence contemporary youth work in Australia. Students will be encouraged to understand the importance of youth work theory in developing their practice skills. The diversity of theoretical frameworks throughout the youth sector will be explored; including various secular and Christian theories used within the sector. Students will accordingly begin to develop their own youth work practice framework, as well as beginning to establish professional awareness of theories and best practice frameworks used by individuals and organisations in the youth sector. Topics: + Youth Work History + The nature of youth work + Social Justice + Systems Theory – Eco systems – Bowen – Minuchin – McGorlick + Psychosocial Theory – Erikson – Strengths + Transpersonal Theory – Maslow – Jung + Behaviourism/Social Learning Theory – BF Skinner – Pavlov – Piaget – Vygotsky + Psychodynamic Theory – Solution focused + Psychodynamic Theory – Narrative + Psychodynamic Theory – Attachment + Anti-oppressive + Review