OAR@UM Community:https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/3382026-05-07T13:29:50Z2026-05-07T13:29:50ZThe benefits of mentoring young people after leaving residential carehttps://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1461722026-05-06T06:41:28Z2025-01-01T00:00:00ZTitle: The benefits of mentoring young people after leaving residential care
Abstract: This thesis investigates the benefits of mentorship for young people transitioning out of residential
care, with a particular focus on its impact within the Maltese context. Using a qualitative research
approach, it explores how mentorship addresses the challenges faced by care-leavers, including
emotional instability, lack of life skills, and social exclusion. Findings reveal that mentorship provides
critical emotional support, builds resilience, and fosters self-confidence through stable, trusting
relationships. Mentors help care-leavers acquire practical skills for independent living, such as
financial management and job preparation, while also offering guidance that promotes social
integration and personal growth. The study emphasizes the role of culturally responsive, consistent
mentorship in bridging the gap between institutional care and independence, demonstrating that
tailored support can lead to greater self-efficacy, social inclusion, and long-term well-being.
Recommendations underscore the need for robust, well-resourced mentorship Programmes to
ensure care-leavers are empowered for successful adult lives
Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)2025-01-01T00:00:00ZPerceptions of mental health professionals about male survivors of maternal emotional abusehttps://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1461712026-05-06T06:36:05Z2024-01-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Perceptions of mental health professionals about male survivors of maternal emotional abuse
Abstract: During these last few years, research has focused on emotional abuse
perpetrated by female caregivers. In this dissertation, an attempt has been made
to understand better how mental health professionals perceive their clients, more
specifically, the male adult survivors of maternal abuse. This study delves into the
attitudes, beliefs, challenges, and training needs of mental health professionals
working within this sector. Data gathered from semi-structured interviews with six
mental health professionals revealed insights into different aspects related to their
profession. Research highlighted the mental health professionals’ perceptions,
shedding light on the type of theoretical guidelines that these professionals follow
during their therapy sessions, what type of therapeutic methods they work with,
and what type of barriers are encountered during the healing process. During the
interviews, discussions revolved around the potential gaps in understanding, what
service provision authorities offer, and the professional training mental health
professionals are equipped with when working in such an intimate
environment. The conclusions contribute to a better and faster understanding of
the complexities surrounding maternal emotional abuse and offer implications for
enhancing support and interventions for male survivors within mental health
practice and education.
Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)2024-01-01T00:00:00ZThe impact of unspoken peer pressure on young people in Malta : an exploratory studyhttps://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1461702026-05-06T06:32:46Z2024-01-01T00:00:00ZTitle: The impact of unspoken peer pressure on young people in Malta : an exploratory study
Abstract: This study shall attempt to unravel the social phenomenon of unspoken peer pressure and its
impact on the longitudinal patterns of behaviour, cultural values and norms. In a rapidly
evolving society, it is pivotal to comprehend the implications of this phenomenon, particularly
on young people. This social inherent pressure can be imposed by various social groups, and
has the potential to shape people’s behaviours. This social pressure urges youth to conform to
certain behaviours due to the subtle influence exerted by peers within a social framework and
milieu. Drawing from the insights gained through qualitative analysis, the study shall
investigate the underlying factors causing unspoken peer pressure and its impacts on young
people’s lifestyle. Through the participants’ direct experiences, the research determines
whether this concept exerts positive of negative influence on young people and how it is being
reflected on their overall wellbeing. The researcher also sought to understand the primary
coping strategies employed by young people when confronted with this phenomenon.
Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)2024-01-01T00:00:00ZThe need for a youth centre in Xgħajra : young people’s views and expectationshttps://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1461652026-05-06T06:17:10Z2022-01-01T00:00:00ZTitle: The need for a youth centre in Xgħajra : young people’s views and expectations
Abstract: A youth centre caters to young people's wants and needs. It offers a safe space where
young people can be empowered to become active citizens and where young people are
recognised as a social force capable of generating change. Youth workers support and
facilitate the young people’s participation in non-formal activities and actively involve them
in activities.
This study identifies the wants and needs of the young people in Xgħajra and their response
to the setting up of a youth centre in this small and developing community. It strives to get a
better understanding of the young people’s expectations and analyse how this youth centre
will cater for their wants and needs.
The collection of data was organised through semi-structured interviews conducted with
eight young people who had received their Holy Confirmation the previous year in Xgħajra.
The age bracket set out for this study was between 13 and 15. The responses were
categorised according to the questions set in the interview and sectioned into three themes:
the infrastructural design and resources, its leadership and its policies and programme of
activities. The general overview of the youth centre was taken into consideration at the
beginning of each interview and was also analysed.
The results emerging from this study show that the village of Xgħajra needs a youth centre
to cater for the holistic needs of its young people. The study further illustrates that young
people can lead the youth centre with the presence of a youth worker who guides them and
supports them. Apart from the need for a youth centre, in Xgħajra there is also a huge need
for sports and recreational (green) areas. A transdisciplinary approach and collaboration
with entities such as the local council will benefit both the young people and the community
of Xgħajra.
Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)2022-01-01T00:00:00Z