DIFFICULTIES OF ADOLESCENTS

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 25020, 31 October 1946, Page 2

DIFFICULTIES OF ADOLESCENTS

ADDRESS BY VISITING YOUTH WORKER “The adolescent needs security and independence—a great deal of independence and just enough security to fall back on when things are difficult,” said Dr. J. Macalister Brew, a leading British authority on youth work, in an address to a large audience in the Christchurch Training College Hall last evening. As a young baby had his difficulties, so did an adolescent, said Dr. Brew, emphasising the need for a greater Understanding by adults in the problems of youth. The care of the boy and girl in the “ante-adult” period was most important in the production of better adults. The adolescent had temotional realms to conquer and it Was no solution to his problem to say that "young people these days are not as reliable as they used to be,” or “young people these days are unable to concentrate.” Dr. Brew urged that youths be given the right opportunities to use their leisure hours to work for others and to think for themselves. Young people must be educated for the changes in the world of to-day and their minds toust be open for the reception of new ideas. “They must be alert,’ aware, and socially conscious to face the consequences of new discoveries.” After her address, which was given enthusiastic applause, Dr. Brew answered a number of questions concerning the welfare of young people in New Zealand. The Mayor (Mr E. H. | Andrews) presided at the meeting.