Living the Label: Youth Work, young people, being 'at-risk' and community-based (arts/sports) programs

This thesis examines the ways in which the 'at-risk' label is designated to, negotiated, and lived by young people participating in rural New South Wales 'At-Risk' community-based (arts/sports) programs. The main findings highlight the ways policy and practice can encourage self governance of youth, and simultaneously enable and constrain young people 'living the (at-risk) label'. Implications for society and schooling include informing parents, teachers and government officials about the potential consequences of the 'at-risk' label.