Transformative participation in the lifeworlds of marginalised youth: learning for change

The chapter contributes to discourses of youth participation with respect to understanding what forms of participation might make a difference for marginalised young people living in the context of structural inequality. Drawing on Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) and Critical Utopian Action Research (CUAR), the chapter makes a case for a transformational learning approach to participation that involves learning and change at both an individual level and in professional interventions with marginalised young people. The chapter presents a case study with young people engaged in criminal and violent activities. This case study provides an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and possibilities of using ‘alternative’, transformative, action-based interpretations of youth participation and empowerment involving social learning rooted in professional encounters with young people’s lifeworlds.