The Role of Youth Centers in Supporting Youth Social Capital Development

Abstract

The positive impact of youth centers on the development of young people is well documented. Many studies have highlighted the importance of these centers in providing access to resources and opportunities. However, research on which elements of social capital are fostered through personal relationships remains limited. This study aims to explore how social capital develops in youth centers, focusing on the structure and content of youth relationships. This study was conducted in 19 youth centers across Slovenia, encompassing 23 distinct nonformal learning programs. Data were collected through 59 semi-structured interviews with three groups of participants: youth, trainers, and organizers. Through inductive thematic analysis based on grounded theory, the study identified nine central themes. The findings suggest that supportive relationships are necessary for authentic learning experiences and identity formation. However, the study also found that their bridging role between different social classes remains limited. Further research into youth relationships in different educational and cultural contexts is needed.