Adolescents with different life problems seeking help before and after the introduction of a low-threshold service model: a Finnish qualitative study

Abstract

There are several concerns related to adolescents living in families with severe and persistent problems. Childhood conditions may contribute to later social exclusion, for example. The aim of this study was to describe study participants’ service experiences before and after the introduction of a low-threshold service model. This model—based on the reformed Youth Act—was developed and implemented during a 2-year project. Data were collected through interviews of seven adolescents during phase one. In phase two, four adolescents responded to essay questions. The views of a youth worker working for this project were also collected, as she played a key role in helping the adolescents. The adolescents participating in this study were girls aged between 12 and 17. Thematic deductive analysis was performed. Two main themes were evident in the participants’ responses regarding their service experiences: the accessibility and acceptability of services. The model highlights the importance of listening to adolescents related to their various problems. The focus is on preventive services and early support. Coordination of preventive services requires special expertise and joint development in inter-professional practices. Moreover, adolescents’ experiences should be taken into consideration in the development of services.