Constructed European Identities: Exploring the role of European Youth Work in the youth workers' construction of European Identity

This study examines how participation in European youth work contributes to the construction of European identity among young people. Drawing on Bergbauer’s (2018) and Ord et al.’s (2021) theoretical frameworks, it explores two causal pathways through which identity develops: an informational–cognitive mechanism, where learning and reflection enhance awareness and understanding of Europe, and an experiential–relational mechanism, where intercultural experiences and friendships create belonging and emotional attachment. Using semi-structured interviews with European youth workers, the research seeks to uncover how European Youth Work plays a role in the youth workers construction of European Identity. The findings show that while both pathways are present, the experiential–relational mechanism is more strongly supported by the empirical data, with transnational encounters, collaboration, and cross-border relationships playing a central role in fostering European identification....Show moreThis study examines how participation in European youth work contributes to the construction of European identity among young people. Drawing on Bergbauer’s (2018) and Ord et al.’s (2021) theoretical frameworks, it explores two causal pathways through which identity develops: an informational–cognitive mechanism, where learning and reflection enhance awareness and understanding of Europe, and an experiential–relational mechanism, where intercultural experiences and friendships create belonging and emotional attachment. Using semi-structured interviews with European youth workers, the research seeks to uncover how European Youth Work plays a role in the youth workers construction of European Identity. The findings show that while both pathways are present, the experiential–relational mechanism is more strongly supported by the empirical data, with transnational encounters, collaboration, and cross-border relationships playing a central role in fostering European identification. Informational–cognitive learning contributes mainly by providing language and frames of reference but appears most influential when embedded in lived experience.Show less

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Constructed European Identities: Exploring the role of European Youth Work in the youth workers' construction of European Identity