Preparation for professional work as an area of independence for juveniles from rehabilitation facilities

Abstract

The article addresses the issue of the emancipation of minors from juvenile rehabilitation centres as an important subject of research within the social sciences. Its structure follows the typical tripartite model found in academic studies. The theoretical part discusses the significance of work as a value in the resocialisation process of minors. Subsequently, the conceptual framework of the author’s research is presented. The aim of the study was to compare the level of preparedness for professional independence between residents of youth educational centres and students attending mainstream schools. The research was conducted within the paradigm of pragmatism, using a mixed-methods (quantitative-qualitative) approach. The method chosen for the study was the interview, using an original interview guide developed by the author. The findings indicate that residents of youth educational centres demonstrated greater uncertainty and lower awareness regarding career-related issues, expectations toward employment, preparedness for job interviews, and CV writing. In contrast, students from mainstream schools exhibited more clearly defined expectations and better knowledge of job search processes, CV preparation, and institutions supporting professional activity. Based on these findings, it was concluded that students from mainstream schools were somewhat better prepared for independent professional life than their peers from youth educational centres.